Can a probate application in Ontario be rejected or sent back by the court?

Yes. If the court refuses or returns an application, staff send Form 74O, Registrar's Notice to Applicant, which gives the reason. A refusal is not always the end of the application.

If documents or information were missing, you can send revised or additional materials when staff ask for them. If a beneficiary has filed a Notice of Objection (Form 75.1), you must give notice to the objector (Form 75.3), and if an issue needs a judge, a judge reviews the application and may make an order. Applications are usually processed within 15 business days, and it takes longer if documents are missing or a judge must decide an issue.

Check the forms and originals your situation requires, since Rule 74.04 lists the forms needed for each situation. Also check that the signed application went to the beneficiaries before filing and whether a bond is needed. If a small estate application is refused, the notice is Form 74.1D. How much time a correction adds depends on the court and the issue, so a lawyer can help you respond.