Fees for Probate Services
Our probate service is designed to help you navigate the legal and financial complexities that arise after a loved one's passing. Our fees start from £2,000+VAT, which covers a comprehensive range of services, ensuring that everything is handled efficiently and professionally. The following services are included in this package:
- Assessment and Valuation of the Estate
We will thoroughly assess and value all assets and liabilities of the deceased’s estate, including property, bank accounts, investments, and personal belongings. This is essential for determining the total value of the estate, which may be needed for tax purposes and to divide the estate according to the will or applicable laws. - Grant of Probate Application
We will handle the preparation and submission of the application for the Grant of Probate, which is the legal document that authorizes the named executor(s) to manage the estate and distribute the assets according to the will (or laws of intestacy if no will is present). - Closing Accounts and Managing Property
Our service includes dealing with all necessary financial matters, such as closing bank accounts, managing the deceased's property, and settling debts. We also assist with the administration of property, which may include selling or transferring ownership of real estate. - Tax and Other Financial Matters
We will manage the payment of any Inheritance Tax owed by the estate. Additionally, we ensure that all other financial matters are addressed, including the settlement of outstanding bills and debts.
Disbursements: There are certain third-party costs (disbursements) associated with the probate process that are additional to our fees. These include:
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- Probate Registry Fee: The standard fee for applying to the probate registry is £300, which covers the administrative costs of processing your application.
- Copies of the Grant of Probate: Once the Grant of Probate has been issued, you may need additional certified copies for institutions (banks, insurance companies, etc.). These are typically charged at £1.50 each.
Please note that other standard fees may also apply depending on the complexity of the estate, such as court fees, property valuation fees, and specialist advisory costs.
Timescale: The average timeframe for the probate process is approximately 16 weeks from the submission of the application to the probate office. This may vary depending on the circumstances of the estate. For example, if there are complications such as missing information, disputes among beneficiaries, or complex tax matters, the process could take longer.
It’s also important to note that any delay in submitting required documents or paying taxes can result in additional delays. We will work closely with you to ensure that all necessary information is submitted promptly to avoid unnecessary hold-ups.