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Services

Family Law(Probate)

Service Overview

Our probate services cover the complete process of applying for the grant of probate, collecting assets, and distributing them to beneficiaries.

Our Experience & Qualifications

At Winside & Freeman Solicitors, our probate team is led by highly experienced professionals with over 32 years of combined expertise in handling estates of all sizes and complexities. Our principal solicitor and associates hold advanced qualifications in law from leading institutions and are trained in probate, estate administration, and inheritance tax matters, ensuring every case is handled with professionalism and attention to detail. With specialized knowledge in UK probate law and regulations, we are well-equipped to navigate complex cases and provide seamless support throughout the probate process.

Estimated Costs

  • General Estate Assets: 1.5% of the gross value.

  • Property (Flat): 0.75% of the gross value.

  • Additional Costs: VAT (charged at the prevailing rate) and expenses.

Note: All fees are subject to 20% VAT.
 

The exact cost will depend on the complexity of the estate. For simpler cases, fees will be lower. For estates with multiple beneficiaries, properties, or bank accounts, fees may be at the higher end.

If the matter becomes exceptionally complicated, additional fees at our hourly rate may apply, and we will notify you of any changes to the estimate.

Abortive Transaction Fees

If the transaction is not completed, our abortive fees will be based on the work completed, calculated at an hourly rate of £300.00 plus VAT and disbursements.

Hourly Rates

  • Partner-supervised Clerk or Paralegal: £150.00 per hour (plus VAT)

  • Assistant Solicitor: £200.00 per hour (plus VAT)

Services Included

This quote applies to estates with:

  • A valid will

  • One property only

  • Up to 2 bank/building society accounts

  • No intangible assets

  • 4-6 beneficiaries with no disputes

  • No inheritance tax liability (no full HMRC account required)

  • No claims made against the estate

Average Timeframe

For estates within this scope, the process typically takes 12-18 months:

  • Grant of Probate: 1-2 months

  • Asset Collection: 6-12 months

  • Distribution: 2-3 weeks

Our Offering

  • A dedicated and experienced probate solicitor.

  • Identification of executors/administrators and beneficiaries.

  • Identification of the appropriate Probate application.

  • Collection of necessary documents.

  • Completion of the Probate and HMRC forms.

  • Drafting of the legal oath.

  • Application to the Probate Court.

  • Provision of two certified copies of the Probate.

  • Collection and distribution of all assets in the estate.

All charges, including our hourly rates and additional costs, are subject to VAT.

Disbursements

Disbursements are third-party fees related to your matter, which we handle on your behalf:

  • Probate application fee: £215.00 + £2.00 (4 copies of the grant)

  • Swearing of the oath: £7.00 per executor

  • Bankruptcy-only Land Charges searches: £3.00 per beneficiary

  • Notice in The London Gazette: £77.58 (protects against unknown creditor claims)

  • Notice in Local Newspaper: £222.00 (additional protection from unknown claims)
     

VAT is not typically applicable on disbursements as they are direct payments to third parties; however, we will inform you of any exceptions.

On some rare occasions, we may arrange a fixed fee; please discuss with our Principal if applicable.

 

Potential Additional Costs

Additional charges may apply if:

  • There is no valid will or if the estate includes shareholdings.

  • Additional copies of the grant are required (£0.50 each).

  • The estate includes property sale or transfer (not covered in this service).

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