Probate may be required when a loved one passes away. Essentially, it means the accessing and distribution of the person’s estate according to their will (if they left one), or according to the law of intestacy (if they did not leave a will).

Probate is the process of applying for a grant of probate (should that be necessary), collecting in the assets of the estate, and distributing the estate according to the will or (in the event that there is no will) the rules of intestacy.

Our fees for probate can vary depending on the complexity of the matter and the estate.Whilst it is not possible to estimate the total costs, as much will depend on the individual circumstances of the matter, most of our probate matters cost between £600 – £5,000 + VAT plus disbursements.

Please note however that matters involving contentious probate, where there is a dispute relating to the will, will usually cost more in fees.

We are able to handle the full process for you from ascertaining the extent of the estate, tofinal distribution to the beneficiaries.

There will also be, in addition to our fees, disbursements to pay, including but not limited to:

• Will Search and Section 27 Notice in the London Gazette – this is best
  practice, and whilst not obligatory, is highly recommended – £199 + VAT;
• The application fee to HMCTS for the grant of probate – £155 plus 50p per
  extra office copy (NB – this is subject to change in the current government
  proposals);
• The swearing of the Oath – either £5 or £7, depending on whether or not there
  is a will;
•  Bankruptcy search – £3 per beneficiary.

Disbursements are costs that related to your matter, payable to 3 rd parties, such as court fees. We handle the payment of the disbursements from client funds to ensure a smoother process.

On average, estates that fall within the above range can be finalised within 6 months. More complicated estates can take longer to resolve.