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Probate Application and Administration Fees
At Bermans we understand that each our client and their estate is unique. We review each matter on its own merits in order to establish the most relevant fee structure. Our probate services fall into two categories: application only or full probate administration.
Fixed Fee Service for Application Only
We offer a fixed fee service for application only matters, whether this is a grant of probate or letters of administration.
If you need assistance with the application only, the main distinction is whether there is an inheritance tax liability.
Probate, application only: no inheritance tax payable
Our fixed fee service is only suitable for matters concerning an estate where assets are passed or preserved without incurring an inheritance tax liability.
Our legal fee of £2500 (plus VAT) covers only an application to the probate registry, based on information provided by you, the client, as the executor of the estate.
We will not engage in correspondence with parties other than executor(s). Should you wish for us to liaise with creditors, debtors, beneficiaries or other interested parties: this may incur an additional fee and will be discussed with you before we proceed.
Probate, application only: with inheritance tax liability
During our initial meeting, please bring as much information as possible concerning the deceased and their estate. Our Private Client solicitors will use this information to confirm the inheritance tax liability based on the approximate value of the estate. The information will help us to prepare an estimate as to the time required to process the application in its entirety, noting that multiple schedules may be required to account for the multitude of assets within the estate.
Our legal fee covers only the preparation and submission of the application to the probate registry. We will rely on information provided by you, the client, as executor of the estate. The fee will be estimated based on the range and value of assets involved, as this will determine the time that will be required to collate the necessary information and complete the forms.
Alternatively, you may wish to engage us to prepare and submit the application followed by completing administration of the estate either in accordance with the Will and letter of wishes or the laws of intestacy.
Probate: full estate administration
If you require support for all elements of administration and communication following the death of a loved one, we offer a comprehensive service. We can complete or assist with all aspects of estate handling, including funeral arrangements, notification processes, asset valuations leading to probate application preparation. Our private client solicitors can also manage the calling in of all funds and relevant distribution.
Our legal fees in this form of instruction cover all time needed to fully finalise the estate of the deceased. We would ask only that you provide all information you have to hand as soon as possible upon our instruction, to ensure an accurate time-cost estimate in a timely manner. If our legal fee estimate changes during the course of our instruction, we will keep you updated accordingly.
Additional costs to note: disbursements
- Probate application – £300
- Additional copies – £1.50 per copy
- Financial profile search – minimum £195 (plus VAT)
- London Gazette s27 advert – £98 (plus VAT)
- Local newspaper s27 notice(s) – can vary, but will be advised of before confirmed and cost incurred
If you have any questions about of probate fees, call our Liverpool or Manchester offices.