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FEES FOR APPLYING FOR PROBATE

We try and fix our fees to apply for probate as much as we are able.  Please note that every estate is different and we will be able to give you a bespoke estimate after our initial meeting.  You will also be advised which category your estate falls into.

EXCEPTED ESTATES                                                                                  FEE £1500-£2500

A full tax return will not be necessary and there will be no tax payable.

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NON-TAXABLE ESTATE WHERE A FULL TAX RETURN IS NECESSARY         FEE £2850 

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FULL TAX RETURN REQUIRED AND TAX PAYABLE                                      FEE £2950-£3750 

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This will enable us to obtain the grant of probate on your behalf. It normally takes between 8-12 weeks for the grant to come through from the date it was applied for.  However, we are in the hands of the Probate Registry and HMRC and there may be further delays depending on how busy they are.  You will then need to advise us whether you want us to collect or distribute the assets. If you do you will be charged on an hourly rate of £275.

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FOR  ESTATES WHERE WE ARE UNABLE TO FIX FEES 

In some circumstances when we are required to obtain valuations and liaise with 3rd parties directly, then you will be charged on an hourly rate basis of £275 from the outset. This will mean that you are instructing us to fully administer the estate.

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Our full service will include the following:

• Providing you with a dedicated and experienced private client lawyer who will be your main point of contact .

• Identifying the legally appointed executors or administrators and beneficiaries.

• Accurately identifying the type of Probate application you will require.

• Contacting all asset holders and debtors to report the death.

• Obtaining probate valuations for all assets and liabilities.

• Arranging insurance for unoccupied property.

• Placing statutory notices in The London Gazette and local newspapers to protect against unexpected claims and liabilities.

• Preparing and submitting the relevant Inheritance Tax forms ( IHT400 with supporting schedules).

• Arranging payment of IHT if required.

• Preparing  the correct probate forms.

• Making the application for the Grant of Probate/Letters of Administration.

• Collecting in estate assets and paying liabilities.

• Preparing and submitting estate income tax returns.

• Preparing estate accounts.

• Undertaking bankruptcy-only Land Charges Department searches on beneficiaries.

• Distributing the estate to beneficiaries.

The amount of time needed to deal with the estate will vary depending on how complex the case is and on how many assets/properties/beneficiaries there are.

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An average estate normally takes between 15-30 hours and cases are likely to be concluded between 6-12 months.

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We offer a free initial consultation and if we are able to deal with the estate on a fixed fee basis then we will let you know.

 

Estates over 1 million pounds:

 

These are likely to be charged out at 2 per cent of the gross estate, however this may be subject to an agreed fee arrangement depending on the size of the estate and number of assets involved.

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Disbursements

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Please note that disbursements need to be added to our fees.

 

• The probate fee is £253 plus 50p for each sealed copy

• The Oath fee for swearing £7 for each Executor

• Bankruptcy search fee £2 plus VAT per name

• Notice in Law Gazette approx. £300

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Who will carry out the work? 

The work will be completed by Debra Williamson. Debra qualified as a solicitor in 1993, and will be assisted by a paralegal. 

Debra's hourly rate charge is £275