We can help you through this difficult process by obtaining the grant of representation on your behalf.
Our fees are based on the amount of time it takes us to apply for the grant of representation and to collect and distribute the estate assets, and on the seniority and experience of the lawyers and other fee earners working on your matter. They will be specifically agreed with you at the outset of your matter once we know the details and circumstances involved and will generally cover all of the work required to complete the administration of the estate.
Our fees are also dependent on the individual circumstances of the matter including the size and complexity of estate, and thus they may increase or decrease accordingly. For example, if there is one beneficiary and no property, costs will normally be relatively low. If there are multiple beneficiaries, a property and multiple bank accounts, and if Inheritance Tax is payable, costs will usually be higher.
Our current charge rates range from £285 for a trainee solicitor to £840 for a senior partner/consultant.
Typically, the cost of obtaining a grant of representation and administering an uncontested estate consisting only of assets situated in the UK will be between £7,500 and £15,000.
We will handle the full process for you. The band of fees set out above applies to estates where:
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 and these are then added to our invoice.
Disbursements are not included in our estimate, however, these typically include:
If there is no will or the estate consists of any share holdings (stocks and bonds) 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
VAT, where applicable, is payable at 20% on legal fees and taxable disbursements.
On average, estates that fall within this range are dealt with within twelve months. The above time frame represents three to six months to obtain the grant of representation, two to three months to collect in assets and one to three months to distribute the assets and generally wind up the administration.
If the administration of the estate is straightforward then the timeframe will likely be at the lower end of these estimates, however, if the estate is substantial in size and complexity then the time frame may be more than these estimates.
As part of our service we will:
You may review the experience and qualifications of our Probate Team here.
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