London Estate Planning | Russell-Cooke Solicitors

Our probate solicitors and executives help you deal with the administration of estates following the death of a family member or friend. You may be a personal representative or a beneficiary. Many people refer to probate to include not just the grant of probate obtained in relation to a will but also the administration of an estate following an intestacy where there is no will. On this page we use the term probate in that same non-technical way to include both probate in relation to a will and intestacy.

Our Probate Solicitors & Executives

The expertise within our probate team allows them to deal with the most complex of estates and legal issues. We have particular expertise in cross-border estates, issues of foreign succession (especially those relating to France) and domicile issues, as well as business property and heritage issues. The long experience of our probate team also allows us to deal sympathetically and efficiently with probate where there are fewer complexities. We appreciate that clients instruct us at a difficult time in their lives and we understand the importance of giving clear, timely, practical advice.

We aim to give probate clients the comfort of first class and completely reputable representation.
Our probate clients

Many of our probate clients are high-net-worth individuals, members of the legal and accountancy professions and people working at a senior level in the financial sector but we also act for many retired people or individuals who are inexperienced in business affairs. We're always happy to discuss how we can help clients economise by dealing with some aspects of a probate themselves without taking on unacceptable risks or over-burdensome administration.

Probate Fees

Most of our clients chose to have their fees for probate work calculated on the basis of hourly rates. Our rates compare well with firms of comparable quality. For our clients this will often work out to be the most economical option but it does carry a risk that complications will cause initial estimates to be exceeded. Some clients prefer the re-assurance of a fixed fee and we're happy to offer a fixed fee basis for probate work if that suits the client best.

Sometimes issues are not limited to dealing with probate because for example disputes arise or there may be special aspects such as a foreign element. We will always discuss and confirm with our client what each charging option involves to allow real choice. We are happy to discuss a reduced percentage basis for estates with a value in excess of £5 million. Often the Russell-Cooke Trust Company acts as an executor without any additional charge.

Comparing Probate Charges

Comparing probate charges can be difficult so we have assembled published information as a briefing called 'a client's guide to probate charges'. We think they demonstrate that we provide outstanding value - but judge for yourself.