How to Obtain a Legal Heir Certificate in Ladakh

Introduction: ‍Losing a loved one is a difficult time, and dealing with the legal aspects of inheritance can add to the burden. In the absence of a will, acquiring a legal heir certificate becomes essential to establish the rightful successors and facilitate the transfer of assets. This blog provides a comprehensive guide on obtaining a legal heir certificate from Leh, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.

Process : Step 1: Visit the Tehsildar/Taluka Office ‍To begin the process, the applicant should visit the Tehsildar/Taluka office in Leh. This is where the application for a legal heir certificate is initiated. Alternatively, the district court can also be approached for this purpose.

Step 2: Obtain the Application Form ‍Request the authorized personnel at the office for the application form. It is advisable to have a sample form for reference. The applicant must provide personal details, including their address, contact number, and identification information. Additionally, details such as the deceased person's address, identity, and relation to the applicant should be provided. An undertaking must also be attached to the application.

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents ‍After completing the form, the applicant should gather the necessary documents. These typically include: a. Court fee of one rupee 25 paise b. Self-undertaking or legal heir testimony c. Letter from the government department of the deceased employee d. Identity proof of the applicant e. Residence proofs of all legal heirs f. Date of birth proofs of all legal heirs g. Original death certificate of the deceased individual h. Original death certificate of the direct legal heir (if required)

Step 4: Submit the Application ‍Attach a two-rupee stamp to the application form. Once completed, submit the application along with the necessary documents to the concerned government office for verification.

Step 5: Verification and Issuance of the Certificate ‍The application is then sent to the village officer and revenue inspector for verification. Once the verification process is complete, the authorized authority issues the legal heir certificate, listing all the legal heirs of the deceased. Typically, it takes around 30 days to obtain the legal heir certificate. In case of any delays, the Revenue Division Officer (RDO) or sub-collector can be approached for assistance.