Timescale and costs will depend on the complexity of the estate and the type of service we have been asked to provide.

Unless an alternative basis of charging for our services is agreed and confirmed in writing, our charges are calculated by reference to the time spent by our legal staff carrying out your instructions.

Our fees are usually calculated on an hourly basis, with no value uplift. So that we know the amount of time being spent on your matter, time is recorded in six-minute units subject to a minimum of six minutes for any activity.

• Collecting in information on the value of the estate

• Arranging payment of funeral costs

• Advising you on buildings and contents insurance

• Liaising with all utility companies, council tax, TV licence, creditors, store card and club memberships

• Short form inheritance tax return (IHT205) or long form IHT400 if required

• Dealing with payment of inheritance tax if required

• Obtaining the grant of probate or grant of letters of administration

• Collecting in assets, payment of known debts and liabilities

• Advice relating to advertising for unknown creditors

• Payment of all cash gifts

• Finalising any estate income tax and capital gains with HMRC

• Preparation of a Final Estate Accounts (based on money coming in and out of the firm’s client and office accounts)

• Distribution of the estate between the beneficiaries and obtaining receipt for payment