Fees for Our Private Client Services

Our pricing is set according to the level and complexity of service you require. We provide a clear quotation at the outset, and you will be promptly advised if work outside the original scope becomes necessary, ensuring there are no surprises. All fees are subject to VAT. Disbursements (payments to third parties on your behalf, such as probate application fees or LPA registration charges) are not included in our listed fees and are shown separately when appropriate.

Wills

A will ensures your wishes are followed and your loved ones provided for. Our fixed fees are:

Simple Will

Single: £350 + VAT = £420

Mirror: £600 + VAT = £720

Trust Wills

Single: £450 + VAT = £540

Mirror: £700 + VAT = £840

Codicils

Single: £250 + VAT = £300

Mirror: £400 + VAT = £480

For more complex wills requiring in-depth planning or trusts for inheritance tax mitigation, we will provide a bespoke quote before starting any work.

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA)

An LPA enables you to appoint a trusted person to make decisions on your behalf if you lose capacity in the future. Our charges are:

• 1 LPA: £500 + VAT = £600
• 2 LPAs: £800 + VAT = £960
• 4 LPAs: £1,000 + VAT = £1,200

The Office of the Public Guardian charges an additional registration fee of £92 per document which is paid separately.

Our fees cover the preparation, guidance, and management of the registration process. 

Estate Administration (Probate)

Administering an estate can involve both applying for the Grant of Probate and the full administration of assets. Our service aims to provide clarity and reassurance at every step.

Applying for the Grant Only:

• Fixed fee: £1,000–£3,000 + VAT (based on information you supply). Complex estates involving inheritance tax or requiring further investigation may attract higher fees calculated by time spent. All additional costs are agreed in advance.

Full Estate Administration:

• Estates under £1,000,000: £4,000–£10,000 + VAT
• Estates above £1,000,000: Minimum fee of £10,000 + VAT

Additional charges:

• Claims for transferable nil rate band or residence nil rate band allowances.
• Sale or transfer of stock market-based investments.
• Conveyancing for sale of property (charged separately).

Disbursements (not included in legal fees):

• Probate application fee: varies by estate value.
• Sealed copies of the Grant: £16 per copy.
• Advertising for creditors: typically £250.
• Other outlays as relevant.

Factors Affecting Fees and Additional Costs

Fee estimates assume:

• There is a valid will and proving it is straightforward.
• Only one property (excludes conveyancing).
• No more than six UK-based bank or building society accounts.
• All assets located in the UK.
• Between one and five beneficiaries.
• No claims or disputes among beneficiaries.
• Where inheritance tax is payable, proper reporting to HMRC is needed.

Further charges may apply if:

• There is no valid will.
• The estate involves more than six bank accounts, shareholdings, or overseas assets.
• You require us to register a death, arrange a funeral, deal with property visits or clearance, or sort personal items.
• Additional copies of the Grant are needed (£1.50 each).
• There are inheritance tax queries or multiple lifetime gifts.

Timeline Guidance

• Grant for excepted estates: typically 4–6 weeks.
• Grant for taxable/non-taxable estates: 7–10 weeks, provided all information is available.
• Full administration: usually completed within 6 months; obtaining a Grant may take 16 weeks or longer if inheritance tax applies.
• Asset liquidation and distribution: typically occurs within 1–2 weeks after collection of funds.

What’s Included in Our Fees

Our full administration service covers:

• Assignment of a dedicated, qualified probate lawyer.
• Identification of executors, administrators, and beneficiaries.
• Confirmation of the necessary application.
• Obtaining and reviewing all required documents.
• Completion of relevant probate and HMRC forms.
• Preparation and submission of statements to the Probate Court.
• Receipt and collection of the Grant and sealed copies.
• Collecting estate assets, settling liabilities, and distributing to beneficiaries.

Who Will Work on Your Matter

All matters are managed by a qualified lawyer. Once you instruct us, you will be told the name of your fee earner and their supervisor. Further information about our team can be found on our people page.

Fixed Fees and Transparency

We offer fixed fees wherever suitable, and where not possible, provide a clear estimate at the outset. You will always be informed before any additional fees are incurred, ensuring there are no hidden costs.

Further Guidance and Contact

If your circumstances fall outside the examples above or if you require individual guidance, please contact us. We are happy to provide a tailored estimate and to explain our services and costs in full before any work begins.

To discuss your needs or request an appointment, call 01892 662233 or email reception@dwlaw-online.com. We are here to provide clear, calm, and professional support at every stage.

All amounts are subject to VAT. Disbursements, such as Stamp Duty, government or court fees, are not included and will be set out for you before you incur them.