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Probate

The loss of a loved one is never easy and can leave you feeling overwhelmed without having to step into the role of being an executor. Our specialist Probate lawyers are highly experienced and are on hand to support you through the process.
Probate

How will it be paid?

When someone dies, there are many questions to be answered and arrangements that need to be made at a very difficult time. The deceased may or may not have made a Will and there will be decisions to be made about the deceased’s funeral and what happens to any property and savings. It can often come as a surprise as to just how much needs to be done when someone dies. There is the matter of trying to identify what is in the estate, and there may be worries over whether Inheritance Tax is going to be payable, and if so, how much, and how will it be paid?
Probate can be straightforward for some families; however, it can be complex and involve disputes for others, so our experienced Probate solicitors are on hand to advise you during this difficult time.

What Is Probate?

A Grant of Probate is a legal document that names the executors (or personal representatives) dealing with the deceased’s estate administration. Dependent upon the circumstances the document can be known as a Grant of Administration.

The Probate Registry issues a Grant of Probate following an application by the personal representatives.The Grant is to confirm that the executor has the authority to deal with the administration of property, money, and possessions to collect and distribute the assets, including certain assets such as shareholdings and bank accounts.

According to the Will or Intestacy Rules, it is usually also required to sell or transfer the deceased’s property.

Probate Lawyers in UK Bedford

How Long Does Probate Take?

The probate process has four key stages:
  • Assessing the assets
  • Application to the probate court
  • Collecting in the various assets
  • Paying liabilities and distributing the estate
The specific timescales can vary widely depending on the complexity and nature of the deceased person’s assets. For straightforward matters, probate can usually be acquired in a matter of 3-6 weeks.
In large and complex estates with multiple properties, this will take much longer as assessing business interests and selling properties can take time
It is always best to speak with a specialist solicitor who can advise you on your specific circumstances.

What We Can Do

We can alleviate some of the worry and pressure of administering the estate by providing the following expertise and services:

  • Checking the validity of the Will or applying the Rules of Intestacy if there is no Will
  • Completing the Probate application form
  • Preparing the Statement of Truth required to be signed by the Executors and Administrators
  • Completing the Inheritance Tax forms (whether tax is due or not)
  • Calculate any Inheritance Tax liability
  • Grant of Probate application (only) service

Therefore, we can handle the application on your behalf, saving you time and effort whilst providing you with peace of mind from knowing that everything has been done correctly.

What We Can Do
When a loved one passes away, dealing with their estate can be a difficult and overwhelming task. Our experienced probate team, led by Dorothy Turner, a solicitor with over 15 years' experience, can guide your through the process and provide you with the support you need during this challenging time.
 
Our fees for probate matters are based on an hourly rate is most circumstances. This is currently between £180.00+ VAT to £250.00 + VAT, depending on the case handler. Each probate matter is unique, however most matters tend to cost somewhere in the region of £1500 - £3000 +VAT. Please note, that this is merely a reference point and that the final fee will depend on the complexity of the estate and the work required. Rest assured, an estimate of costs will be provided prior to conducting any work, after our initial discussions. All legal costs are subject to VAT at the usual rate.
 
For matters where the Gross value of the estate is between £1,000,000 - £2,000,000, a fixed fee of 2% of the gross value of the estate is charged. Where the Gross value of the estate is £2,000,000 +, our fees are 2.5% of the gross value of the estate.
 
In addition to our professional charges, there may also be disbursements that will need to be paid during the probate process. These disbursements are expenses that we pay to third parties, such as the Probate Registry or HMRC. Some common disbursements include an advertisement in The London Gazette, which is approximately £90.00 + VAT, and valuations which can also be subject to VAT. Some disbursements, such as application fees are not subject to VAT. Once we are familiar with the details with your matter, we will be able to notify you of the possible disbursements and also if they are subject to VAT.
 
Please note that every probate case is unique, and the costs can vary depending on the specific circumstances. For a bespoke estimate on your probate matter, please do not hesitate to contact us using the enquiry form on our website or call us directly on 01234 350 244.
Why choose us

Why Choose Us?

Our solicitors are experts in probate and the administration of estates.
We have helped many individuals across the country through the sensitive and complex process of applying for Probate and distributing assets.

Contact us as you like!

People rely on us, and we pride ourselves on our client-centered advocacy and representation.
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Deo Volente is a company registered in United Kingdom with registration number 0C373569, VAT 125 446 327 and registered office Howard House 2nd Floor, St John’s Street, Bedford, MK42 0DJ, United Kingdom. We are an approved Alternative Business Structure authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA number: 568191) and we are member of the Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce.
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