Interesting question.

I'm not a lawyer, but...

Surely the first issue is where the will is being kept. If it's in private hands the release of it will be entirely within the discretion of whoever's got it, though I would assume the law allows an executor to see it, as in the situation below.

If the will has been deposited with a solicitor, the following applies: "Bear in mind that wills are not public documents until probate has been granted. Until then, only the executors are entitled to see it. A solicitor or the probate registry will not provide the will to you if you are not named in it as an executor." (from tinyurl.com/dxpowma)

There are provisions in law, it seems, to get executors to act within a reasonable time if they are dragging their feet.

If this is a practical situation you're facing, and you are an executor trying to access a will in private hands maybe you should seek further, professional, advice. However, it doesn't seem likely that a family member who's not an executor would have any rights in this respect. On the other hand, if you are concerned about the legitimacy of a will you should definitely seek the advice of a solicitor, with a view to contesting it, which you can do after probate has been granted and the will becomes public.

Edited by FP on 19/08/2013 at 20:15

It is normal to send a copy of the will to anyone who inherits a substantial sum, once probate is granted. If it is family, then just contact the executor(s) and request a copy. Unfortunately when large sums of money are involved, some people become paranoid, or jealous. My sister told me I was not used to sharing when I acted as executor for our late mother, and I did not let her take a share in the duties. I thought it proper to carry out our late mother's wish, that I act as sole excutor, but share information about the progress.