Recent media coverage has again highlighted the excessively high charges on administration of estates by Banks and Will Writers. It has been reported that Banks charge up to a fee of 4% of a deceased’s assets for acting in the administration of the estate; in one case fees of £25,200 plus VAT were charged.

The report went on to say that “an estimated 90,000 people a year find themselves forced into accepting Executors specified in their relatives Wills and to pay the charges they imposed.”

We advise our clients to review their Wills on a regular basis, especially when matters such as this are highlighted in the national press. We are happy to assist you in the process of reviewing your Will and discuss the possible “hidden costs”.

We believe in value for money and the fees that we charge are justified by the superior service we offer.

When a person dies it is necessary for his or her estate to be ‘wound up’ which means that the assets (such as property and money) need to be collected, any outstanding debts settled and the remainder distributed to those entitled.

If the estate contains shares or property then we can arrange for valuations to be obtained and for the assets to be sold or transferred as appropriate.

If the deceased did not leave a will then he or she is said to have died ‘intestate’. This means that his or her assets will be distributed in accordance with the strict rules of intestacy.

Unlike other probate providers we provide clients with an estimate of charges at the outset so that they are clear as to the basis upon which we are charging. We provide regular progress reports of the latest position and we do not have any hidden costs.

Our specialist advice is both legal and practical. Not only can we can assist with the probate application but with more practical matters such as arranging for redirection of mail. We provide a sympathetic and sensitive yet efficient and comprehensive service.

Our team of experts are here to help you.