PROBATE FEES

Handling probate matters can be complex, as the size and nature of estates can vary significantly. This variability makes it challenging to provide an exact estimate of probate costs upfront. At Lonsdale & Mayall Solicitors, we aim to simplify the process by offering a transparent and straightforward fee structure.

Fixed Fee for Probate Services
In most cases, we charge a fixed fee of 1.5% of the gross value of the estate, plus VAT at 20%. This approach allows us to offer clear and predictable pricing, reflecting the size and complexity of the estate being administered.

Hourly Rate for On Account Probates
For on account probate matters, where it may not be appropriate to charge a fixed fee, the hourly rates for our fee earners range between £161 and £261 plus VAT. The exact rate will depend on the level of experience of the fee earner handling your case.

Disbursements
In addition to our fees, there are disbursements that may be required during the probate process. These are expenses payable to third parties on your behalf, which include:

•    Government probate fee: £300
•    Extra copies of the Grant of Probate: £1.50 per copy

Other potential disbursements may include fees for:

•    Share registrar charges
•    Asset valuations
•    London Gazette Advertisement
•    Notices regarding the Will
•    Property information checks
•    Bankruptcy and Insolvency searches

Fees Guide
Most typical probates that we deal with incur fees of between £1,750 and £50,000 plus VAT (charged at 20%) depending on the complexity and share of the estate. Please see examples below:

Simple Estate

•    1 property
•    2 bank accounts
•    valid will
•    no liabilities
•    2 beneficiaries
•    estate value £175,000

Our fixed fee probate quotation for this estate would be £2,625 plus VAT at 20% and disbursements.

Standard Estate

•    1 property
•    4 bank accounts
•    valid will
•    4 beneficiaries
•    estate value £350,000
•    
Our fixed fee probate quotation for this estate would be £5,250 plus VAT at 20% and disbursements.

Complex Estate

•    1 property
•    8 banks
•    2 financial institution accounts
•    no will (intestate)
•    4 beneficiaries
•    estate value £850,000

Our fixed fee probate quotation for this estate would be £12,750 plus VAT at 20% and disbursements.

High-value Estate

•    2 x properties
•    12 banks
•    4 financial institutions accounts
•    valid will
•    6 beneficiaries
•    estate value £2 million

Our fixed fee probate quotation for this estate would be £30,000 plus VAT at 20% and disbursements.

Further Information
For more details about the fee earners who may handle your probate matter, please visit our Meet the Team page.

If you would like to discuss your probate matter in more detail or obtain a tailored fee estimate, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Please note that the current rate of VAT charged by HMRC is 20%.

 

There may be third party charges for valuation of property and chattel and by share registrars, London Gazette advertisement fees (if required) etc.