What is the chain of representation?

When an executor takes out a grant of probate in a testator’s estate, they become an executor not just of that testator’s Will but also of any Will of any other individual of which the testator was sole or sole surviving proving executor.

The chain of representation passes from proving executor to proving executor. Eg, Ahmed is the sole surviving executor of Bob’s estate and Ahmed dies before the completion of the administration of the estate leaving his own Will appointing Callie as executor of his estate. On proving Ahmed’s Will, Callie automatically becomes executor not only of Ahmed’s estate but also of Bob’s estate through the chain of representation. On Callie’s subsequent death, her executor Dionne automatically becomes executor of Ahmed’s and Bob’s estates (if the administration of those estates is incomplete) on proving Callie’s Will.

Where a sole or sole surviving executor dies