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\qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT LAUTOKA
\par CIVIL JURISDICTION}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Civil Action HBC No 144 of 2007
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
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\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 SHAHBAN ALI}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13975671 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 son of Mohammed Hassan of}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13975671  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Olosar}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13975671 a, Sigatoka, Purchasing Officer
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 as the beneficiary of the estate of Jhahura Khatoon, deceased.
\par Plaintiff
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 AND:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959\charrsid3944959 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 ALI HASSAN}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13975671 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 son of Mohammed Hassan of Tuva,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13975671  Maro, Sigatoka, Farmer
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 as the one of the surviv}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13975671 ing executor and trustee of the
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Estate of Mohammed Hassan, deceased.
\par Defendant
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Counsel Appearing}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 :
\par 
\par M K Sahu Khan & Associates for the Plaintiff
\par Patel & Sharma for the Defendant
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Date of Hearing}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 7 April 2010
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Date of Judgment}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 26 April 2010
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 JUDGMENT
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par [1]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 This Court brought to the notice of the Bar in o
pen court, in this and earlier cases, the Practice Direction No 2 of 1994 and the relevant rules of the High Court Rules and sought their submissions.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Parties in this action have tendered written submissions and I considered them and make the following order.
\par 
\par [2]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
Before probate or letters of administration is issued, a probate court requires publication of the application to be made, it is a universal practice and incorporated as a mandatory provision in statutes as well.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par 
\par [3]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 In Fiji, such applications are made to the Principal Probate Registry in Suva and dealt with by the Suva High Court.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 By such publication, the public is given notice of the estate of the deceased as being administered in the Suva High Court.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par 
\par [4]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 When a me
mber of the public wishes to deal with the property or the estate and when he needs verification of the probate or letters of administration shown to him, he will seek verification from the Principal Probate Registry in the Suva High Court and if he finds
 that there are no pending proceedings in the published proceedings he will proceed to rely on the probate or letters shown as clear.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
However, if the testamentary proceedings are permitted to be filed either seeking the removal of an appointed executor or a
dministrator or account of the estate is sought to be tendered or settled, in another court (Lautoka) then the Suva Probate proceedings will have no record of the pending proceedings regarding the estate.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 As such, by filing, such proceedings in a court other than the issuing court (Suva High Court Probate Registry) and in the probate proceedings, the public could be deceived or misled.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Probate actions are essentially of the nature of an action in rem, and those actions that are quasi-probate too attract thi
s element of public interest.
\par 
\par [5]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
Furthermore, when a probate or letters of administration is issued by the court, it is an authority given by court and the executor or administrator is duty bound to account to that court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Probate and letters of administration is not issued for the recipient to do as he wishes with the estate of the deceased.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 By encouraging such proceedings to be instituted in other courts, the authority of the issuing court is diluted.
\par 
\par [6]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Plaintiff has attached a copy of }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Singh -vs- Kour}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 (2005) FJHC 531: HBC0191 of 1997 (16 September 2005),}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
 a similar matter instituted in the High Court of Lautoka.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 However at page 7, at paragraph 2 (}{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Exhibit P.4 doc. 4}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 )}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 His Lordship Justice Finnigan, refers to a situation in that case thus; }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
On 9 March 1992 in the Suva High Court the plaintiff obtained an order commanding }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Gurdib Kour}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
 to bring to the Probate Registry the probate of the estate of }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Sarran Dass No 17627}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
, which she had been granted on 12 April 1973 (Exhibit}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 p.4 doc 4).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Counsel asserted }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 this command had never been complied with, and this was not challenged}{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 . Therefore, }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
since 1992 until 2005, the order recalling probate had not been complied with, but parties were permitted to litigate in Lautoka.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  Non compliance with the recalling order ma
y not have gone beyond at least the date of institution of that action had the Practice Direction No:2 of 1994 been complied with. 
\par 
\par [7]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 In other jurisdictions (not Fiji) Civil Courts (District Courts) have probate jurisdiction within the local limits of t
heir jurisdiction, and publications in respect of estates are done by those respective courts, and those interested in the estates or dealing with them, note the court in which the testamentary proceedings are instituted and notice}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 their claims or pay thei
r debts to the estate and follow the progress. Actions are not entertained in other courts in respect of those estates, unless they are filed qua administrator or executor and sued as such against or by third parties.
\par 
\par [8]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 In probate and testamentary proce
edings, more often than not minors are involved, property is left in trust and opportunity to vandalize is abundant.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
Under those circumstances, it is even recommendable to publish the existence of such cases upon their institution and put the public on notice. 
\par 
\par [9]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 When executors or administrators are removed or replaced by proceedings outside Suva Probate Court, no publication is ordered as in the 
}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Sing -vs - Kour}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  case. 
\par 
\par [10]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 In the case of }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Singh -vs- Kour}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 , Judge Finnigan was not made aware of Practice Direction No 2 of 1994, and the issue went unnoticed, as such I do not consider }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Singh \endash vs- Kour}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  creates a precedent or ratio decedendi to be followed on that point.
\par 
\par [11]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 The purpose of publication in the first instance is lost by such proceedings.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 When I fi
rst came across such cases in the High Court of Lautoka in the last few months, and when I made queries I was made to understand that such proceedings are possible in the High Court of Lautoka.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 However, on further research, I came across Practice Direction No 2 of 1994 by the Chief Registrar pursuant to an order of the then Chief Justice, which at item 1 states: }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 All probate business, }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 contentious and no-contentious}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  is dealt with in the Registry at Suva pursuant to an order made by the Chief Justice}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Item 1.1 states }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 documents are not to be filed in any High Court Registry}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 .
\par 
\par [12]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Order 4 rule 1(2)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  provides that }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Applications for probate of letters of administration and resealing made under the provisions of the }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Succession Probate}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 and Administration Act}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  shall be filed and dealt with at Suva}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Order 76 rule 1(2)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
 define a probate action to include the revocation of a probate or letters of administration.
\par 
\par [13]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Grants }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 de bonis non}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  and other subsequent grants such as in }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Cessate}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
 are obtained in the English law pro
bate practice, by applying to either the Principal Registry or to the District Registry from which the original grant has issued. In England apart from the Principal Probate Registry, other district registries are empowered with probate jurisdiction and m
a
intain immediate data exchange with the principal registry. In the event a party lodges a caveat in the principal registry or other district probate registry, they are immediately sent to the principal probate registry. Caveats and standing search applica
tions cannot be managed to give reliable results if estates are permitted to be dealt with independently from the principal probate registry.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par 
\par [14]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 When applying for }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
double probate}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  it is made to the principal registry or registry where the will is registered.
\par 
\par [15]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
The aforesaid and the following features of this case further persuade me to the view that this is an action that ought to have been filed in Suva High Court;
\par 
\par [16]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 The plaintiff seeks:-
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
(a) An order to revoke the appointment of Ali Hassan as sole executor and trustee of the estate of Mohammed Hassan deceased;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
(b) An order to appoint a new trustee or trustees to administer the affairs of the Estate of Mohammed Hassan;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 (c}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 ) }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 That plaintiff be authorized to take out letters of administration in respect of the estate of his mother Jhahura Khatoon aka Zohra Khatoon;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 (d)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 That pending the grant of letters of administration in respect of the estate of Jhahura Khatoon, plaintiff be appointed as new trustee in addition with defendant under }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Section 73(1) of the Trustee Act, Cap 65.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par [17]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
I wonder why authorization is requested by plaintiff to take out letters of administration, unless, he intends to deviate from the usual procedure of publication, in applying to the probate registry.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 The relief}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 '}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 s sought therefore fall very much within a probate action.
\par 
\par [18]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
It is obvious that every action in which a executor or administrator figures is not a probate action, however, when it is intra estate and when a
ccounts are to be given or succession to be determined, or when orders amounting to letters of administration, grants }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 de bonis non}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 , cessate, double probate are sought, or the appointment or revocation of}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
executors or administrators are sought, to maintain the integrity in probate}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
proceedings, so paramount for good title, preservation of the estate and distribution according to law,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
I am of the view that such proceedings should as a rule be instituted and proceeded in the same testamentary proceedings in which the probate or letters issued.
\par 
\par [19]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 The rule relating to probate counter claims in other proceeding as set out in }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Order 76, rule 15}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 , and as published in the }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
Supreme Court Practice (White Book) of 1997, Vol I}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  is reproduced (with my notes in italics) for its parallel significance.
\par 
\par [20]}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Order 76, rule 15(1)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  - In this rule }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 probate counter claim}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
 means a counter claim in any action other than a probate action by which the defendant claims any such relief as is mentioned in }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 rule 1(2), (i.e. Order 76, rule 1(2).
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par [21]}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Rule. 15 (12}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 ) - subject to the following paragraphs, this order (
}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Order 76 on Contentious Probate proceedings}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
) shall apply with the necessary modifications to a probate counterclaim as it applies to a probate action.
\par 
\par [22}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 ]}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Rule 15(3)}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  - A probate counterclaim must contain a statement of the nature of the interest of the defendant and of the plaintiff in the estate of the deceased to which the counterclaim relates.
\par 
\par [23]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Rule 15(4)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  - Revoked.
\par 
\par [24]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Rule 15(5) -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
Unless an application under }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Order 15 rule 5(2)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959  (}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
i.e. to strike out, not to be confused with rule 15 above}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 ) is made within seven days after the service of a probate counterclaim for the counterclaim to be struck out (}{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 i.e. as it should have been made to the Chancery Division with probate jurisdiction}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 ) and the application (}{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 to strike out}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 ) is granted, }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
the court shall, if necessary of its own motion, order the transfer of the action to the Chancery Division}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
 (if it is not already assigned to that division) and to either the Royal Courts of Justice or a Chancery District Registry (if it is not already proceeding in one of those places).
\par 
\par [25]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 The Practice is stated as; }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 This is intended to get all probate actions into the appropriate forum.}{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
Unless a party applies within seven days after service of such a counterclaim to strike it out and the application is granted, the action has to be transferred of the courts own motion if necessary to the Chancery Division (if not there already) and to th
e Royal Courts of Justice or a Chancery District Registry (if not already there)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 (}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Jurisdiction in contentious probate proceeding were transferred to the Chancery Division in 1971).
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par [26]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 This is not the only case of this nature instituted and entertained in the High Court of Lautoka.
\par 
\par [27]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 The parties have nursed this case up to the hearing stage.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 It would not be just to strikeout this matter on the ground of mistaken jurisdiction or wrong forum.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
The more appropriate order as I have made earlier in such matters is to transfer the case to the Suva High Court where it can be amalgamated with the relevant probate proceedings, and the parties can}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 proceed to seek relief before the proper forum, }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
without interrupting the integrity of the testamentary and probate proceedings already in existence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 .
\par 
\par [28]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
As such, I am transferring this case to the High Court of Suva and to the attention of the Probate Registry in Suva to amalgamate, and accordingly di
rect the Deputy Registrar of the High Court of Lautoka to take the administrative steps to transfer this case accordingly.
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 Parties to bear their costs.
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid15277945 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid15277945 Y I Fernando
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 JUDGE}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3944959 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3944959\charrsid3944959 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 At Lautoka}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10682986\charrsid3944959 26 April 2010
\par }}