What services will I be charged for in probate?

The specific services and level of support required will be determined during our initial consultation. Once you instruct us to assist you, we can provide the following services:

  • Initial Instructions, Papers Review, and Advice: Our initial consultation involves gathering information, reviewing relevant documents, and providing tailored advice.
  • Preparation of Legal Documents and Grant Applications: We will assist you in preparing all necessary legal documents and grant applications required to obtain a Grant of Probate or Grant of Letters of Administration.
  • Estate Administration: Our team will handle the entire estate administration process on your behalf, including contacting relevant parties, asset collection, settling liabilities, and distributing the estate according to the deceased’s will or intestacy rules.

How much does probate cost?

Determining the cost of probate can vary depending on your specific circumstances. We are committed to providing you with personalised advice and the best options available for your situation. Contact us today, and our specialist solicitors will offer an estimate tailored to your needs.

Our fees for estate administration typically range between 2.5% and 4% of the gross value of the estate. However, please note that this range may vary depending on the unique characteristics of the estate.

Estimating the total cost of estate administration can be complex due to various factors, including:

  • Volume of Assets: The more assets involved, the higher the associated costs for their identification, valuation, and administration.
  • Identification and Valuation of Assets: Some estates require thorough investigation and evaluation of assets due to a lack of organization by the deceased.
  • Business Ownership: Specialised valuations and considerations related to tax and governance may be required for business assets, often requiring external assistance.
  • Jurisdiction of the Deceased: If the deceased held foreign assets or had non-domicile status, additional complexities may arise.
  • Taxation: Inheritance Tax, Capital Gains Tax, and Income Tax can impact the overall cost of estate administration.
  • Complexity of the Will: Interpretation, challenges and the number of legacies can influence the complexity and associated costs.
  • Trusts Created by the Will: The presence of trusts within the estate can add complexity to the administration process.
  • Creditors: Addressing any outstanding debts owed by the deceased may affect the cost.
  • Challenges from Beneficiaries: Disputes or legal challenges from beneficiaries can increase the overall expenses.
  • Sale/ Transfer of Property/ Investments: Costs related to property or investment transactions may arise during estate administration.
  • Appropriation of Property/ Investments: Proper distribution and transfer of assets to beneficiaries may involve additional expenses.

We will inform you of any changes to our estimated fees before proceeding with further work to ensure transparency throughout the process.

For straightforward grant applications, we offer a fixed fee of £1,200 (including VAT) plus disbursements. However, if the application involves more complex issues, an additional fee may be charged. Rest assured, any additional charges will be discussed and agreed upon in advance.

Hourly rates for our services range from £132 to £480, taking into account the complexity of your case, the experience of our lawyers, and your geographical location.

Likely disbursements

Probate Application (payable to HMCTS) £273.00
Office Copy Grants of Probate (per copy) £1.50
S27 Notices to Creditors
London Gazette £96 (inc VAT)
Other (local paper) £100.00 – £200.00
Asset/ Liability Search (not mandatory) £300.00
Death Certificates (per copy) £11.00
HM Land Registry Office Copy Entries (per copy) £3.00
Bankruptcy Searches (per beneficiary)
UK £2.00
Overseas £60.00

Can I pay legal fees for probate from the estate?

If you choose legal representation as the administrator or executor, you can pay the professional fees from the estate, alleviating any immediate financial burden.

Do you have questions about probate fees?

Should you have any further enquiries about probate fees, our team of solicitors specialising in probate matters is ready to provide assistance. Contact us on 0207 177 7579 to speak with one of our friendly advisors.

Please note that all prices mentioned on this page include VAT.

Estimated Timescale

The process will take between 6 months to a year, with 9 months being the average time for probate to complete. This will depend on the complexity and size of the estate. If there is a Will in place and the estate is relatively straightforward it can be done within 6 months. You’ll usually get the grant of probate or letters of administration within 16 weeks of submitting your application. It can take longer if you need to provide additional information.

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