Presumption of death

Relatives of missing loved ones will be able to obtain presumption of death certificates from 1 October 2014. These are equivalent to death certificates and can be applied for by relatives of people who are presumed dead, allowing them to put their legal and financial affairs into order. Justice Minister Lord Faulks QC said the new certificates created a “simpler legal framework”. Presumption of death certificate schemes already exist in Scotland and Northern Ireland.