Costs Estimates

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) requires all regulated firms to publish transparent pricing in the area of probate services we deliver to members of the public.  However, as in all cases, we prefer to provide our clients with a bespoke quotation for their individual needs.  Should you wish to receive a quotation tailor made to your circumstances, please contact Claire Joseph on claire.joseph@ad-solicitors.co.uk or 020 7251 7639.

Russell Abrahams, a Partner of the firm and Claire Joseph, a Solicitor, provide probate services.

Without knowing what is comprised in the estate, it is very difficult to provide details of the likely costs involved.  However, our fees in these matters typically range from £3,000 to £20,000 plus VAT (presently 20%) depending on the circumstances and complexity of the estate.  Our hourly rate for probate cases is £450 plus VAT (presently 20%) for Russell and £325 plus VAT (presently 20%) for Claire.

Typical probate disbursements

Disbursements are costs and expenses payable to third parties.  These are likely to comprise of the following:

  • Probate Court Fees of £273 plus £1.50 per additional copies of the Grant (VAT not applicable)

  • Swear Fees £5 to £7 (VAT not applicable)

  • Trustee Act Notice in the London Gazette £80 plus VAT (presently 20%)

Typical timescales and key stages

  • Identifying assets and liabilities of the estate, establishing a summary of the same as at the date of death including a valuation of the deceased’s assets and liabilities for estate and tax purposes, and preparing the appropriate HMRC inheritance tax accounts - approximately 3-6 months from instruction

  • Establishing the basis for testamentary or other dispositions, preparing the relevant application for the Grant to the Probate Registry of the High Court – approximately 3-6 months

  • Collection of estate assets, payment of estate liabilities and testamentary legacies and distribution of residuary estate – approximately 6-9 months

  • Estate accounts and income tax reports and returns – approximately 6-12 months

With every matter, there is a possibility that something could arise which could delay the process and involve more time to be spent by us that can be anticipated at the outset.  In these circumstances, our costs estimate would need to be revised.  However, we will always inform you immediately that such a matter has arisen and discuss the potential cost implications with you before incurring any additional fees to the estimate provided at the outset.

Examples of non-standard probate instances

  • There is a will which cannot be found

  • The grant of probate is likely to be contested

  • Where any beneficiaries do not have capacity under the Mental Health Act or are a minor

  • Where there are any trusts in the Will

  • Where there are any missing beneficiaries

  • Whether any forensic work is needed to create family tree under intestacy

For further information on any of the above please contact Abrahams Dresden on 020 7251 3663.