Probate Fees , what to expect?

There are a number of firms in the country who practice probate work so it is very important to make sure you find a firm or a probate specialist who can provide a good service but at a reasonable price.

Probate firms charge in different ways. It is usually, either, by assessing the value of the Estate and charging a percentage, or, by charging an hourly rate. Charges can also vary depending on whether you have someone very senior or a more junior person handling your matter. It is therefore important to know everything you can about costing from the firm beforehand before you commit to instructing them. You must be very up front about asking them whether there will be any hidden charges in addition to those that you are told of and that are of a general nature. Often, firms will charge extra fees for ‘unanticipated’ work or where they think the matter has become more complicated than they originally envisaged. You will usually see this in the  client care letter.

In my experience, it is always better to know from the outset what your probate fees will come to so it is preferable to agree a fee with the firm you wish to instruct, beforehand. That way there are no nasty shocks at the end of the day. The process of applying for Probate itself can be a stressful time especially if a loved one has only just passed away and you have been left with the task of administering the Estate. It is therefore very important to make sure that you are as level headed as possible when finding a suitable Probate Specialist to assist you and who will charge you a reasonable amount for their work.