Preuveneers LLP – Probate & Estate Services

Losing a loved one is a difficult time. Alongside grief, there are many legal and administrative tasks that need attention, often within strict time limits. From finding out if there’s a Will to arranging access to bank accounts or tracing beneficiaries, these responsibilities can feel overwhelming.

At Preuveneers LLP, we provide compassionate guidance and professional support, helping you navigate the probate process smoothly and with confidence.

Our Probate Services

Supporting Executors and Administrators

If you are the named executor or administrator, you have legal duties to the estate and its beneficiaries. We can:

• Guide you through your responsibilities.
• Assist in applying for a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration.
• Handle the preparation and submission of inheritance tax documents.
• Administer the estate in line with the Will, or the Intestacy Rules if no Will exists.
• Provide a final, detailed statement showing assets released, bills paid, and gifts distributed.

Our aim is to take the strain off your shoulders during this sensitive time.

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Initial Consultation – We offer a 20-minute fixed-fee meeting for £50 + VAT to discuss the estate. If you instruct us further, this fee is waived.
2. Identify Executors, Beneficiaries & Assets – We help confirm all parties and locate assets.
3. Prepare Probate Application – We complete forms, including HMRC returns and PA1P/Statement of Truth.
4. Court Submission – We submit your application to the Probate Registry where possible using the online portal.
5. Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration – Once issued, we manage the release of assets.
6. Estate Administration – We distribute assets, pay bills, and ensure beneficiaries receive their entitlements.

Contentious Probate & Family Arrangements

Sometimes, disputes arise:

• A Will’s validity may be challenged.
• Family disagreements may require negotiation
• It may be considered in the best interest of the estate to enter into a Deed of Family Arrangement.

Our team at Preuveneers LLP can advise, represent, and guide you through contentious matters to protect the estate and your interests.

Likely Costs

Stage 1 Obtaining a Grant of Probate

To provide you with an indication of our fees we have set out the likely costs of a basic application for Probate. The cost indication provided is on the assumption that the Executors/Administrators of the Estate are willing to act, and the Beneficiaries are known and can be located. We would further assume that the assets can be identified and valued and are all held within the UK.

We anticipate this will take between 8 and 15 hours work at £258 (Including vat) per hour or £300 (Including Vat) where we are appointed Executors. Total costs estimated at £2,064 -£3,870 (including VAT) to £2,400-£4,500 (+VAT). The exact cost of our services will depend on the individual circumstances of the matter.

For example, if there is one beneficiary and no property, costs may be at the lower end of the range. If there are multiple beneficiaries, a property and multiple bank accounts, costs will be at the higher end. If there is a property, the cost of selling the property is not included within the estimate.

• Additional costs (disbursements) may include:
  • Probate Registry fees: £300 + £1.50 per additional copy
  • Land Registry copies: £7 per copy
  • Bankruptcy searches: £6 per person
  • Bank transfers: £40 + VAT
  • Advertising in The London Gazette and local papers: approx. £300

This estimate is based on the following assumptions:

• There is a valid will or for an intestate estate where the estate passes to the spouse or children of the deceased and no minority interest occurs.
• There is no more than one property.
• There are no more than 5 bank or building society accounts.
• There are no other intangible assets.
• There are 1-5 beneficiaries.
• There is no inheritance tax payable and the executors do not need to submit a full account to HMRC.
• There are no disputes between beneficiaries on division of assets. And there are no claims made against the estate.
• If disputes/claims arise this is likely to lead to an increase in costs as the matter could become contentious requiring the Estate to be involved in Litigation.

Stage 2 Administering an Estate

It is difficult to give an accurate estimate of costs as this does depend on the complexity of the estate which in turn varies depending on the size of the estate, the type of assets held, the number and type of beneficiary etc. The costs can range anywhere between £2,500 – £15,000 (including VAT) for a complex case. If there is a house to be sold a separate fixed quotation will be provided for that service.

Please note the prevailing rate of VAT is currently 20%.

Potential Additional Costs

If there is no will or the estate consists of any share holdings (stocks and bonds) foreign assets or trusts or there is a dispute there are likely to be additional costs that can range significantly depending on the estate and how it is to be dealt with. Our team can give you a more accurate quote once we have more information.

Timeframes

Standard cases take on average: 3–6 months to receive Grant of Probate; 6–12 months to complete administration. Complex estates: 18–36 months.

Preuveneers LLP will provide a full cost estimate at the start and update you regularly, so there are no surprises.

Why Choose Preuveneers LLP?

• Dedicated Solicitors: Experienced in all aspects of probate and estate administration.
• Comprehensive Support: From initial consultation to final distribution of assets.
• Compassionate Guidance: Sensitive and understanding advice during a challenging time.
• Transparent Fees: Clear cost estimates and management of disbursements.

Contact Us

For more information or to discuss your matter with our probate team:

Phone: 020 8646 4885
Email: Kelly@p-llp.net