Probate and Estate Administration

Our fees in relation to obtaining grants of probate (or letters of administration) and full estate administrations are based on the amount of time spent by legal staff undertaking work on your behalf. Our hourly rates are detailed within our standard terms and conditions. Where less than one hour of work is involved, we calculate the time spent in units of 6 minutes (10% of the hourly rate). Telephone calls (made and received) are recorded in units of six minutes. Routine letters and emails written are counted as six minutes, and letter and emails received as three minutes.

Each estate is unique, and as a result it is difficult to provide a clear projection of the likely overall cost. A straightforward estate usually takes between 15 and 30 hours to administer and we estimate that our fees will fall between £3,000 + VAT and £8,000 + VAT. A straightforward estate is one in which the following applies:

• There is a valid will
• There is no more than one property
• There are no more than 5 bank or building society accounts
• There are no other intangible or foreign assets
• There are no more than 4 beneficiaries
• There are no disputes between beneficiaries in relation to the division of assets
• The estate is not liable for any inheritance tax
• There are no claims made against the estate

The estimates provided are an indication only and individual circumstances may lead to the costs falling below or above these thresholds. For example, if there is only one beneficiary and no property, our costs will be considerably less, whereas if there is no Will, or the estate is taxable, costs may be at the higher end of the range. We will keep you informed in relation to costs as the matter progresses and can provide a revised estimate of total fees where unforeseen events occur or circumstances change.

In addition to our fees, there are costs associated with estate administrations which are payable to third parties. This includes but is not limited to:-

• Probate application fee of £273;
• Statutory notices, which protect against unexpected claims from creditors, ranging from £150 - £200 in most cases;
• Fee for copies of the Grant document at £1.50p per copy;
• Fees in relation to the sale of shares if held by the deceased;
• Fees in relation to any conveyancing. Please see our Conveyancing calculator for estimates

On average, most estates are dealt with within 6-12 months. Simply obtaining the Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration usually takes between 3-6 months (subject to any delays at HMRC or the Probate Registry) and collecting and distributing the assets is determined by the size and complexity of the estate. As soon as we are aware of the nature of these, we will be able to advise you further.