We recognise that in the weeks and months following a bereavement, emotions are often running high and these can be exacerbated by a family dispute. Our Solicitors are skilled in delivering their expert advice with sensitivity and tact towards clients and opposition alike. We strive to be approachable and sympathetic while at the same time vigorously pursuing and protect clients.
Our practice includes contentious and non-contentious probate matters, acting for both claimants and defendants (including executors) in cases involving the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependents) Act 1975. Administration of estates, including insolvent estates, also featured in this practice is dealing with the removal of awkward and recalcitrant Trustees and Executors. Claims concerning the validity of wills by reason of testator’s incapacity, the effects of undue influence, or the satisfaction of formal requirements.
OUR FEES ON WILLS
Drafting simple Will and Witness £250.00 plus VAT
Drafting complex Will and Witness. Please consult for quotation.
Lasting Power of Attorney
(i) Financial Affairs 650 plus VAT
(ii)Health and Welfare 650 plus VAT
General Power of Attorney £150.00 plus VAT
Special Power of Attorney Please consult for quotation.
OUR FEES ON PROBATE MATTERS
Area
Fees
Grant of Probate or Letter of Administration (up to £500k and Non Contentious)
£1250 plus VAT
Administering of Estate (Non Contentious)
£2500 plus VAT
Applying for the grant, collecting and distributing the assets
The exact cost will depend on the individual circumstances of the matter. For example, if there is one beneficiary, costs will be at the lower end of the range. If there are multiple beneficiaries, multiple properties and multiple bank accounts, costs will be at the higher end, unless agreed frees, all probate matter will be charged on hourly rate.
We will handle the full process for you. This quote is for estates where:
There is a valid will
There is no more than one property
There are no more than X bank or building society accounts
There are no other intangible assets
There are X-X beneficiaries
There are no disputes between beneficiaries on division of assets. If disputes arise this is likely to lead to an increase in costs
There is no inheritance tax payable and the executors do not need to submit a full account to HMRC
There are no claims made against the estate
Guidelines
Each matter is unique
Each transaction is unique, and this is a guideline only. The exact cost will depend on the individual circumstances of the matter and when we know the size and likely complexity of the estate and the amount of work involved, we shall then be able to inform you of the likely cost and also time involved.
Each matter is dealt with by an individual Fee Earner so that you will know who to contact when any queries arise. Our approximate charges are set out below:
Probate
Senior Solicitor over 10 years (Head of Private Client) £260.00 + VAT per hour
Solicitors over 5 years £240.00 + VAT per hour
Trainee Solicitors £175.00 + VAT per hour
Legal Assistants £75.00 + VAT per hour
Charges
Amount of Charge
Description
1%
Of the Gross Estate
Charged in units of 1/10th of an hour
Routine Letters and Routine Telephone Calls (made and received)
Charged in units of 1/20th of an hour
Considering Routine Letters received
£60.00 + VAT (per annum)
Storage Fee
Disbursements
All disbursements will need to be paid in addition to the fees charged. These costs are related to your matter which are payable to third parties such as Probate Court fees. We handle the payment of disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process.
Timescales
On average the administration of a simple estates is normally dealt with within six months, but this could vary depending on complexity.
However, we do recommend that you telephone us to discuss your matter further as the above schedule on Costs and Time should be used as a guide only.