Get it Complete

Dealing with probate can feel like a second job at the worst possible time. If you instruct Linley James Solicitors, we take the executor’s workload off your hands, keep the estate moving, and make sure tax, paperwork and distributions are handled properly and transparently.

You’ll get a clear plan from the start, practical guidance throughout, and regular updates so you’re never left wondering what’s happening.

What we do (uncontested probate)

Most estates are resolved without dispute. In an uncontested probate we typically:

Immediate practical steps (where needed)

  • Guidance on registering the death and what happens next
  • Funeral support if required (including liaison and logistics)

Estate fact-find and risk checks

  • Audit of assets and ownership (what is and isn’t in the estate)
  • Review the will to confirm it is valid and fit to proceed
  • Where necessary, investigate will-making circumstances if there are warning signs

Protect and secure the estate

  • Secure and safeguard estate property and valuables
  • Identify and manage urgent risks (unoccupied property, insurance, access)

Gather in assets and identify liabilities

  • Trace assets, obtain valuations, contact banks and institutions
  • Deal with shares/securities pricing and paperwork
  • Check bank accounts and how assets pass (estate vs jointly held vs nominated)
  • Identify debts owed to the estate and steps to recover them
  • Identify liabilities the estate must pay

Tax, reporting and the Grant

  • Inheritance tax reporting and calculations (often with accountants where appropriate)
  • Capital gains tax review where relevant (e.g. additional properties)
  • Apply for the Grant of Probate / Letters of Administration

Accounts, planning and distribution

  • Full estate accounts and clear reporting to executors/beneficiaries
  • Consider whether a Deed of Variation could lawfully improve tax efficiency
  • Distribute the estate to beneficiaries
  • Set up any trusts required and advise on ongoing administration

If there is a dispute (contested probate)

If the estate is challenged—validity disputes, interpretation arguments, or claims from someone excluded—we can act quickly to protect the estate’s position and resolve matters as cost-effectively as possible.

Our default approach is negotiation and mediation first to reduce cost and preserve relationships where possible. If court proceedings are necessary, we prepare the case thoroughly and keep you informed at every stage.

Your Probate Team

Your matter will be led by our probate solicitor with over 15 years’ experience and STEP membership, supported by experienced probate staff and, where needed, specialist solicitors and counsel.

Our Probate Fees (clear, transparent pricing)

We aim to give you clarity from the outset. Fees are based on the information provided in our initial questionnaire. If the scope changes materially, we will explain why and agree the next steps.

Uncontested probate

  • Most estates: 1.25% of the estate value + VAT
  • Simple probate: £1,250 + VAT (typically where there is no tax to pay and the estate is under £5,000)
  • More complex estates / material changes in scope: £300 per hour + VAT

What can increase costs

  • Large number of assets or institutions
  • Multiple beneficiaries or complex communications
  • Trusts or complex will provisions
  • Foreign assets / cross-border elements
  • HMRC negotiations or relief claims (business/agricultural)
  • DWP issues, missing beneficiaries, or trust wind-ups
  • Any dispute between beneficiaries or claims against the estate

Contested probate

Costs vary because disputes vary. We keep fees under review and keep you updated throughout.

  • Contested matters start from: £2,250 + VAT
  • Hourly rate: £300 per hour + VAT
  • Typical overall range (indicative): £7,500–£15,000 + VAT

If court proceedings are required, counsel’s fees and court-related costs apply in addition. Most disputes settle before trial.

Disbursements (typical additional costs)

Probate often involves third-party fees, for example:

  • Probate Registry fee: £300
  • Sealed copies: £1.50 per copy
  • London Gazette notice: £110
  • Additional newspaper notice: from £150
  • Will search: £114
  • Valuations (property/chattels/shares): varies
  • Property valuation: £100–£150 + VAT (typical)
  • Estate agent fees (if selling): £400–£600 + VAT (typical)
  • Unoccupied property insurance: £400–£500 (typical)

Example cost

Estate value: £450,000, will in place, no property sale, bank accounts and investments, multiple beneficiaries.

  • Our fee: 1.25% = £5,625 + VAT = £6,750
  • Probate Registry fee: £300
  • Copyof the probate form : £1.50
  • London Gazette notice: £110

Indicative total: £7,161.50 (including VAT, plus any other disbursements that apply)

Call us now — book a Probate Triage

To get started, book a Probate Triage appointment and we’ll tell you:

  • what route you’re on (straightforward / complex / disputed)
  • what we need from you
  • what the likely timeline is
  • what the costs are and how to keep them controlled

Call 0207 060 1210 to book a legal appointment.