Probate

Call us on 01723 866353

Probate

We can help you settle the affairs after the passing of a loved one.

Dealing with probate can be time-consuming and stressful—but it does not have to be.

We can take on the burden of handling probate for you, so you have one less thing to worry during what is no doubt a very stressful time.

We can meet with you either in your own home (or care home), at your place of work or other location and carefully explain the process. We can answer any questions you may have and give you an idea of the costs and timescales involved.

The first step is to request a free consultation, during which we will explain:

  • Why you may not even need a Grant of Probate
  • How long it usually takes
  • Why we DO NOT charge a percentage of the estate (and never will)
  • The pitfalls & dangers of doing probate yourself (despite what others may say)
  • How soon we can get started working on your behalf
  • And answer any questions you may have about the process

 

To request your free 15 minute consultation either fill out the form on this page, or simply call us and ask for your free consultation.

We look forward to being of service and removing all of the worry, burden and hassle usually associated with probate.

Testimonials...

“I have received a professional, helpful legal service, delivered with understanding at a most difficult time. Would not hesitate to use the legal services of Jepson, Longstaff and Midgley in the future.”

Probate Client

“Kirsty put me at ease and put all my troubles away. I would certainly go to her again.”

Mrs. Cammish

“The application for probate of my Auntie’s estate was dealt with very professionally, and kindly, by Kirsty who immediately made me feel at ease, and gave me confidence. Queries were answered quickly and explained very clearly. I am very grateful to her.”

Helen S.

"Everything was explained and simplified to a good understanding. We felt comfortable and never pressured into doing anything, we were given time to consider things and explanations of different costs will definitely use again."

Kelly Dunn

"I have been highly satisfied with the standards of service that my cousin and I have received during all transactions with your firm. I will have no hesitations in referring your company to friends, and I have already mentioned you to two friends. Your staff has made what has been a difficult period in my life a lot easier to handle. Many thanks to all concerned."

Miss Johnson

"I used your service during a bereavement and very much appreciated the kind and clear way you handle my case. I had many things to do and think about at the time. Knowing the legal side of things was being expertly looked after was a great comfort. Thank you."

Mr. Dowson

Speech Bubble

Administration of Estates

Our work for all types of estates is charged at an hourly rate:

Private Client Solicitor £255.00 plus VAT of £51.00 (£306.00 inclusive) per hour
Private Client Paralegal £175.00 plus VAT of £35.00 (£210.00 inclusive) per hour

 

Obtaining a Grant of Probate (Client deals with the remainder of the estate)

Estimate of fees of £1,000.00 to £2,000.00 plus VAT of £200.00 to £400.00 (£1,200.00 to £2,400.00 inclusive) plus Court fee of £300.00 plus £1.50 per office copy

This work would involve applying for a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration.

Costs could rise above £2,000.00 plus VAT of £400.00 (£2,400.00 inclusive) if there are a high number of assets or a full Inheritance Tax Return is required.

Basic Estate Administration

Estimate of fees £2,000.00 to £5,000.00 plus VAT of £400.00 to £1,000.00 (£2,400.00 to £6,000.00 inclusive) and disbursements.

This work would involve valuing the estate and applying for a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration, collecting in all assets, paying all liabilities, drafting estate accounts and distributing the estate. Basic estates would usually not attract an Inheritance Tax liability.

Costs could rise above £5,000.00 plus VAT of £1,000.00 (£6,000.00 inclusive) and disbursements if there is a high number of assets and/or multiple beneficiaries. Basic estates usually take up to 18 months to complete.

Administration of an Estate (more complex)

Estimate of fees £5,000.00 to £8,000.00 plus VAT of £1,000.00 to £1,600.00 (£6,000.00 to £9,600.00 inclusive) and disbursements.

This work would involve valuing the estate and applying for a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration, collecting in all assets, paying all liabilities, drafting estate accounts and distributing the estate.

A more complex Will may involve the payment of Inheritance Tax and the filing of a full Inheritance Tax Return, there may be an issue of law to determine, the estate may include a high number of assets or liabilities or a significant number of beneficiaries, it may be that Executors or beneficiaries reside abroad or it may include the management of a property pending sale.

Various factors can increase the amount of work involved and, in such circumstances, then costs may increase above £8,000.00 plus VAT of £1,600.00 (£9,600.00 inclusive) . However, you will always be informed before an estimate is exceeded.

A more complex estate can take between one and two years to complete. Any contention in the estate can cause costs to rise significantly.

Various fees are in addition to the basic fees for the estate administration. For instance, the costs associated with any sale or transfer of property or land will be additional, as will any commercial work.

Disbursements associated with estate administration

Probate or Letters of Administration application fee £300.00 plus £1.50 per office copy
Bankruptcy searches for each beneficiary £2.00 plus VAT of £0.40 (£2.40 inclusive)
Office copies for registered property £3.00 plus VAT of £0.60 (£3.60 inclusive)
Trustee Notices (depending upon the publication)  From £410.00 plus VAT of £82.00 (£492.00 inclusive)

Any additional disbursements will be explained to you prior to the cost being incurred.

More Information About Probate...

Key Contact:

Tracy Murray

Tracy Murray

Charlotte Smith

Charlotte Smith

To arrange a free 15 minute consultation with Tracy or Charlotte either fill out the form or call us on 01723 866353 for an appointment.

We look forward to helping you.

Free Consultation