Fixed Fee Charges

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In simple cases we can help you through this difficult process by obtaining the Grant of Probate on your behalf. We may agree a fixed fee for this service.  We can do his at your first consultation appointment.

 

As part of our fixed fee we will:
 

• Provide you with a dedicated and experienced probate solicitor to work on your matter

• Identify the legally appointed executors or administrators and beneficiaries

• Accurately identify the type of Probate application you will require

• Complete the Probate Application and the relevant HMRC forms

• Draft a legal statement of truth for you to sign

• Make the application to the Probate Court on your behalf

• Obtain the Probate and securely send copies to you as requested let you have a quotation, if required, to collect and distribute all assets in the estate
   

How long will this take?

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On average, estates that fall within this range are dealt with within approximately 6 months. 
 

Fees for Complex Estates

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For many cases, however, applications are complex and it is not possible to proceed by way fixed fee. We anticipate applying for the grant, collecting and distributing the assets will take between 15 and 20 hours work at £200.00 per hour plus VAT.  Together with a value element of 1% of the gross estate.

 

The exact cost will depend on the individual circumstances of the matter. For example, if there is one beneficiary and no property, costs will be at the lower end of the range. If there are multiple beneficiaries, a property and multiple bank accounts, costs will be at the higher end. In our experience the average total charge to include both capital element and time element is around 1.5-2% of the gross estate.

 

We will handle the full process for you and the process is for estates where:
 

• There are no disputes between beneficiaries on division of assets. If disputes arise this is likely to lead to an increase in costs

• There are no claims made against the estate
  
   

Disbursements

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Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as court fees. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process.

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• Probate application fee of £273 for Estates over £5000

• £7.00 Swearing an oath with a will attached when necessary (per executor).

• Bankruptcy-only Land Charges Department searches (£2 per beneficiary)

• £81.00 Post in The London Gazette – Protects against unexpected claims from unknown creditors.

• £128.00-£158.00 Post in a Local Newspaper – This also helps to protect against unexpected claims.
  
   

Potential additional costs
 

• If there is no will and there are unknown beneficiaries to be traced there are likely to be additional costs that could range significantly depending on the estate and how it is to be dealt with. We can give you a more accurate quote once we have more information.

• Dealing with the sale or transfer of any property in the estate is not included.
  
   

How long will this take?
 

On average, currently, estates that fall within this range are dealt with within approximately 8 months.