Our fees

• Conveyancing (residential)
• Probate (uncontested)
• Motoring offences (summary offences)
• Employment tribunals (unfair or wrongful dismissal)
• Debt recovery (up to £100,000)

Conveyancing (residential)

We have done our best to provide a guideline as to cost below, however, there are many potential variables in the conveyancing process.

An example of factors that would typically increase the cost of the service might include:

• if legal title is defective or part of the property is unregistered
• if you discover building regulations or planning permission has not been obtained
• if crucial documents you have previously requested from the client have not been provided

Purchase of a freehold residential property

Our fees cover the work required to complete the purchase of your new home, including dealing with registration at the Land Registry and dealing with the payment of Stamp Duty Land Tax (Stamp Duty) if the property is in England, or Land Transaction Tax (Land Tax) if the property you wish to buy is in Wales.

Conveyancer’s fees and disbursements

• Legal fee
  • Value of property up to £250,000;  £875 plus VAT
  • Value of property from £250,000 – £500,000; £975 plus VAT
  • Value of property from £500,000 to £1 million; £1,150 plus VAT
• Search fees: Fees vary from one Local Authority to the next, however typically in the range of £250 to £500
• HM Land Registry fee please follow link below:
  https://www.gov.uk/guidance/hm-land-registry-registration-services-fees
• Electronic money transfer fee £30 (inc. VAT)

Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as Land Registry fees or SDLT. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process.

Stamp Duty or Land Tax (on purchase)

This depends on the purchase price of your property. You can calculate the amount you will need to pay by using HMRC’s website or if the property is located in Wales by using the Welsh Revenue Authority’s website here..

Search fees: Fees vary from one Local Authority to the next, however typically in the range of £250 to £500 (inc. VAT)

HM Land Registry fee please follow link below:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/hm-land-registry-registration-services-fees

• Land Registry pre-completion search £3.00 per title searched
• Bankruptcy/Land Charges search: £2.00 per name searched
• Anti-Money Laundering search – £6.00 per name searched (inc. VAT).

Some features of a residential conveyance mean that additional fees may be incurred, we provide some examples below:

• Complying with the requirements of the Homes and Communities Agency in connection with a Help to Buy Mortgage £200 (exc. VAT)
• Dealing with the additional documentation on a the purchase of a new build property £150 (exc. VAT)
• Administering collection of a Help to Buy ISA bonus from HMG £50 (exc. VAT)
• Dealing with a second or subsequent legal charge (per charge) £200 (ex. VAT)
• Dealing with an unregistered or defective title in a sale or purchase £150 (ex. VAT)
• Dealing with the Shared ownership aspect of your property £200 (ex. VAT)
• Preparation of a Declaration of Trust £150 (ex. VAT)
• Preparation of approval of a Deed of Covenant £95 (ex. VAT)
• Sourcing, approving or processing an Indemnity Insurance Policy £50 (ex. VAT)
• Assignment, re-assignment or discharge of a life insurance policy £40 (ex. VAT)
• Affecting the transfer of a share in a management or freehold holding company £50 (ex. VAT)
• Administration fee for obtaining copies of planning/building regulation approvals from the Local Authority (£35 ex VAT)
• Approving an existing tenancy agreement £100 (ex. VAT)
• Affecting the transfer of a freehold in conjunction with a lease £200 (ex. VAT)
• Compliance with lender’s requirements in connection with a buy to let mortgage £150 (ex. VAT)
• Discharging a second or subsequent mortgage (per discharge) £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of gift £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of guarantee £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of postponement £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of variation of lease £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a licence to assign a lease  £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a limited power of attorney £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a licence to occupy £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a key undertaking £100 (ex. VAT)
• Approval of title to an additional parcel of land or registered title £100 (ex. VAT)
• Discharging a charge to the Legal Aid Agency £150 (ex. VAT)
• Dealing with an offer of bridging finance £200 (ex. VAT)
• Advising in relation to a guarantor £150 (ex. VAT)

How long will my house purchase take?

How long it will take from your offer being accepted until you can move in to your house will depend on a number of factors. The average process takes between 8-12 weeks.

It can be quicker or slower, depending on the parties in the chain. For example, if you are a first time buyer, purchasing a new build property with a mortgage in principle, it could take 8-12 weeks. However, if you are buying a leasehold property that requires an extension of the lease, this can take significantly longer, between 3 and 6 months. In such, a situation additional charges would apply.

Stages of the process

The standard fee set out above in connection with a purchase of registered freehold title covers the following services:

• Supplying you with our client care package to include a written estimate of costs and disbursements.
• Obtaining evidence of identity and address from you and carrying out Anti Money Laundering searches in accordance with statutory requirements.
• Receiving and perusing title documentation draft contract and standard enquiry documentation from the conveyancer acting for your seller.
• Raising and receiving supplemental enquires arising from the paperwork received.
• Applying for standard searches (Local Authority, Water and Environmental) and checking the results
• Agreeing the form of contract and transfer deed with the conveyancer acting for your buyer.
• Receiving and checking a copy of your mortgage offer and complying with your lender’s requirements
• Supplying you with a written report on the contract, property and your mortgage
• Preparing Stamp Duty Land Tax Return, Transfer Deed and Mortgage Deed.
• Arranging for you to sign the contract, transfer, Stamp Duty Land Tax Return and supporting documentation.
• Discussing with you your requirements for a completion date.
• Exchanging contracts.
• Reporting to your mortgage lender on the property and obtaining your mortgage advance
• Preparing a completion statement for you setting out the financial aspects of the sale.
• Dealing with the completion of the sale.
• Registering you purchase and mortgage at the Land Registry.
• Supplying you with updated title entries from the Land Registry once registration is completed.
• Storing any original deeds and documents for you until needed on resale.
• Storing your file for 12 years in accordance with SRA requirements.

Sale of a freehold residential property

Our fees cover the work required to complete the sale of your home, including dealing with registration at the Land Registry

Conveyancer’s fees and disbursements

• Legal fee
  • Value of property up to £250,000;  £800 plus VAT
  • Value of property from £250,000 – £500,000; £900 plus VAT
  • Value of property from £500,000 to £1 million; £1,000 plus VAT
• Electronic money transfer fee £30 (inc. VAT)

Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as Land Registry fees or SDLT. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process.

• Anti-Money Laundering search – £6.00 per name searched (inc. VAT).
• Official Copy Title Entries from Land Registry; £3.00 per document

The standard fee set above in connection with a sale of a registered freehold title covers the following services:

1. Supplying you with our client care package to include a written estimate of costs and disbursements.
2. Obtaining evidence of identity and address from you and carrying out Anti Money Laundering searches in accordance with statutory requirements.
3. Obtaining title documentation from the Land Registry.
4. Obtaining your instructions on standard form property enquiries.
5. Preparing draft contract and supporting paperwork and submitting the same to the conveyancer acting for your buyer.
6. Agreeing the form of contract and transfer deed with the conveyancer acting for your buyer.
7. Obtaining your instructions on and responding to supplemental enquires raised by the conveyancer for your buyer.
8. Arranging for you to sign the contract and transfer documentation.
9. Discussing with you your requirements for a completion date.
10. Exchanging contracts.
11. Obtaining a repayment figure for one mortgage account.
12. Receiving your estate agent’s commission account.
13. Preparing a completion statement for you setting out the financial aspects of the sale.
14. Dealing with the completion of the sale.
15. Paying off one mortgage account from the proceeds of sale.
16. Paying your estate agent from the proceeds of sale.
17. Accounting to you with any balance of funds due.
18. Storing your file for 6 years in accordance with SRA requirements

Some features of a residential conveyance mean that additional fees may be incurred, we provide some examples below:

• Complying with the requirements of the Homes and Communities Agency in connection with a Help to Buy Mortgage £200 (exc. VAT)
• Dealing with the additional documentation on a the purchase of a new build property £150 (exc. VAT)
• Administering collection of a Help to Buy ISA bonus from HMG £50 (exc. VAT)
• Dealing with a second or subsequent legal charge (per charge) £200 (ex. VAT)
• Dealing with an unregistered or defective title in a sale or purchase £150 (ex. VAT)
• Dealing with the Shared ownership aspect of your property £200 (ex. VAT)
• Preparation of a Declaration of Trust £150 (ex. VAT)
• Preparation of approval of a Deed of Covenant £95 (ex. VAT)
• Sourcing, approving or processing an Indemnity Insurance Policy £50 (ex. VAT)
• Assignment, re-assignment or discharge of a life insurance policy £40 (ex. VAT)
• Affecting the transfer of a share in a management or freehold holding company £50 (ex. VAT)
• Administration fee for obtaining copies of planning/building regulation approvals from the Local Authority (£35 ex VAT)
• Approving an existing tenancy agreement £100 (ex. VAT)
• Affecting the transfer of a freehold in conjunction with a lease £200 (ex. VAT)
• Compliance with lender’s requirements in connection with a buy to let mortgage £150 (ex. VAT)
• Discharging a second or subsequent mortgage (per discharge) £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of gift £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of guarantee £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of postponement £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of variation of lease £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a licence to assign a lease  £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a limited power of attorney £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a licence to occupy £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a key undertaking £100 (ex. VAT)
• Approval of title to an additional parcel of land or registered title £100 (ex. VAT)
• Discharging a charge to the Legal Aid Agency £150 (ex. VAT)
• Dealing with an offer of bridging finance £200 (ex. VAT)
• Advising in relation to a guarantor £150 (ex. VAT)

Purchase of a leasehold residential property

Our fees cover work required to complete the purchase of your new home, including dealing with registration at the Land Registry and dealing with the payment of Stamp Duty Land Tax (Stamp Duty) if the property is in England, or Land Transaction Tax (Land Tax) if the property is in Wales.

Conveyancer’s fees and disbursements

• Legal fee
  • Value of property up to £250,000;  £1,025 plus VAT
  • Value of property from £250,000 – £500,000; £1,175 plus VAT
  • Value of property from £500,000 to £1 million; £1,350 plus VAT
• Fee for acting on behalf of the mortgage lender: included in the above
• Search fees: Fees vary from one Local Authority to the next, however typically in the range of £250 to £500
• Electronic money transfer fee £30 (inc VAT)

Disbursements

Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as search fees. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process. There are certain disbursements which will be set out in the individual lease relating to the Property. The disbursements which we anticipate will apply are set out separately below. This list is not exhaustive and other disbursements may apply depending on the term of the lease. We will update you on the specific fees upon receipt and review of the lease from the seller’s solicitors.

• HM Land Registry fee please follow link below:
  https://www.gov.uk/guidance/hm-land-registry-registration-services-fees
• Search fees: Fees vary from one Local Authority to the next, however typically in the range of £250 to £500 (VAT?)
• Electronic money transfer fee: £30 (inc. VAT)
• Land Registry pre-completion search £3.00 per title searched
• Bankruptcy/Land Charges search: £2.00 per name searched
• Anti-Money Laundering search – £6.00 per name searched (inc. VAT).

Anticipated Disbursements*

• Notice of Transfer fee – This fee if chargeable is set out in the lease. Often the fee is between £50- £200.
• Notice of Charge fee (if the property is to be mortgaged) – This fee is set out in the lease. Often the fee is between £50 and £200.
• Deed of Covenant fee – This fee is provided by the management company for the property and can be difficult to estimate. Often it is between £50 and £200.
• Certificate of Compliance fee – To be confirmed upon receipt of the lease, as can range between £50 – £200.

*These fees vary from property to property and can on occasion be significantly more than the ranges given above. We will be better able to give you an accurate figure once we have sight of your specific documents.

You should also be aware that ground rent and service charge are likely to apply throughout your ownership of the property. We will confirm the ground rent and the anticipated service charge as soon as this we receive this information.

Stamp Duty Land Tax

This depends on the purchase price of your property. You can calculate the amount you will need to pay by using HMRC’s website or if the property is located in Wales by using the Welsh Revenue Authority’s website.

Some features of a residential conveyance mean that additional fees may be incurred, we provide some examples below:

• Complying with the requirements of the Homes and Communities Agency in connection with a Help to Buy Mortgage £200 (exc. VAT)
• Dealing with the additional documentation on a the purchase of a new build property £150 (exc. VAT)
• Administering collection of a Help to Buy ISA bonus from HMG £50 (exc. VAT)
• Dealing with a second or subsequent legal charge (per charge) £200 (ex. VAT)
• Dealing with an unregistered or defective title in a sale or purchase £150 (ex. VAT)
• Dealing with the Shared ownership aspect of your property £200 (ex. VAT)
• Preparation of a Declaration of Trust £150 (ex. VAT)
• Preparation of approval of a Deed of Covenant £95 (ex. VAT)
• Sourcing, approving or processing an Indemnity Insurance Policy £50 (ex. VAT)
• Assignment, re-assignment or discharge of a life insurance policy £40 (ex. VAT)
• Affecting the transfer of a share in a management or freehold holding company £50 (ex. VAT)
• Administration fee for obtaining copies of planning/building regulation approvals from the Local Authority (£35 ex VAT)
• Approving an existing tenancy agreement £100 (ex. VAT)
• Affecting the transfer of a freehold in conjunction with a lease £200 (ex. VAT)
• Compliance with lender’s requirements in connection with a buy to let mortgage £150 (ex. VAT)
• Discharging a second or subsequent mortgage (per discharge) £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of gift £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of guarantee £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of postponement £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of variation of lease £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a licence to assign a lease  £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a limited power of attorney £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a licence to occupy £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a key undertaking £100 (ex. VAT)
• Approval of title to an additional parcel of land or registered title £100 (ex. VAT)
• Discharging a charge to the Legal Aid Agency £150 (ex. VAT)
• Dealing with an offer of bridging finance £200 (ex. VAT)
• Advising in relation to a guarantor £150 (ex. VAT)

The precise stages involved in the purchase of a residential leasehold property vary according to the circumstances.

The standard fee set out above in connection with a purchase of a registered leasehold title covers the following services:

1. Supplying you with our client care package to include a written estimate of costs and disbursements.
2. Obtaining evidence of identity and address from you and carrying out Anti Money Laundering searches in accordance with statutory requirements.
3. Receiving and perusing title documentation, lease,  draft contract and standard enquiry documentation from the conveyancer acting for your seller.
4. Raising and receiving supplemental enquires arising from the paperwork received.
5. Applying for standard searches (Local Authority, Water and Environmental) and checking the results
6. Agreeing the form of contract and transfer deed with the conveyancer acting for your buyer.
7. Receiving and checking a copy of your mortgage offer and complying with your lender’s requirements
8. Supplying you with a written report on the contract, property, lease and your mortgage
9. Preparing Stamp Duty Land Tax Return, Transfer Deed and Mortgage Deed.
10. Arranging for you to sign the contract, transfer, Stamp Duty Land Tax Return and supporting documentation.
11. Discussing with you your requirements for a completion date.
12. Exchanging contracts.
13. Reporting to your mortgage lender on the property and obtaining your mortgage advance
14. Preparing a completion statement for you setting out the financial aspects of the sale.
15. Dealing with the completion of the sale.
16. Submitting notices of transfer and mortgage to the Landlord/Managing Agent
17. Registering you purchase and mortgage at the Land Registry.
18. Supplying you with updated title entries from the Land Registry once registration is completed.
19. Storing any original deeds and documents for you until needed on resale.
20. Storing your file for 12 years in accordance with SRA requirements.

How long will my house purchase take?

How long it will take from your offer being accepted until you can move in to your house will depend on a number of factors. The average process takes between 8-12 weeks. It can be quicker or slower, depending on the parties in the chain. For example, if you are a first time buyer, purchasing a new build property with a mortgage in principle, it could take longer. However, if you are buying a leasehold property that requires an extension of the lease, this can take significantly longer, between 3 and 6 months. In such, a situation additional charges would apply.

Sale of a leasehold residential property

Our fees cover work required to complete the sale of your home, including dealing with registration at the Land Registry

Conveyancer’s fees and disbursements

• Legal fee
  • Value of property up to £250,000;  £950 plus VAT
  • Value of property from £250,000 – £500,000; £1,050 plus VAT
  • Value of property from £500,000 to £1 million; £1,150 plus VAT
• Electronic money transfer fee £30 (inc VAT)

Disbursements

Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as search fees. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process. There are certain disbursements which will be set out in the individual lease relating to the Property. The disbursements which we anticipate will apply are set out separately below. This list is not exhaustive and other disbursements may apply depending on the term of the lease. We will update you on the specific fees upon receipt and review of the lease from the seller’s solicitors.

• Electronic money transfer fee: £30 (inc. VAT)
• Anti-Money Laundering search – £6.00 per name searched (inc. VAT).
• Fees of managing agent for providing replies to standard enquiries relating to the management of a building/estate. The fees are not within our control, as they are set by the managing agent

Some features of a residential conveyance mean that additional fees may be incurred, we provide some examples below:

• Complying with the requirements of the Homes and Communities Agency in connection with a Help to Buy Mortgage £200 (exc. VAT)
• Dealing with the additional documentation on a the purchase of a new build property £150 (exc. VAT)
• Administering collection of a Help to Buy ISA bonus from HMG £50 (exc. VAT)
• Dealing with a second or subsequent legal charge (per charge) £200 (ex. VAT)
• Dealing with an unregistered or defective title in a sale or purchase £150 (ex. VAT)
• Dealing with the Shared ownership aspect of your property £200 (ex. VAT)
• Preparation of a Declaration of Trust £150 (ex. VAT)
• Preparation of approval of a Deed of Covenant £95 (ex. VAT)
• Sourcing, approving or processing an Indemnity Insurance Policy £50 (ex. VAT)
• Assignment, re-assignment or discharge of a life insurance policy £40 (ex. VAT)
• Affecting the transfer of a share in a management or freehold holding company £50 (ex. VAT)
• Administration fee for obtaining copies of planning/building regulation approvals from the Local Authority (£35 ex VAT)
• Approving an existing tenancy agreement £100 (ex. VAT)
• Affecting the transfer of a freehold in conjunction with a lease £200 (ex. VAT)
• Compliance with lender’s requirements in connection with a buy to let mortgage £150 (ex. VAT)
• Discharging a second or subsequent mortgage (per discharge) £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of gift £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of guarantee £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of postponement £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a deed of variation of lease £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a licence to assign a lease  £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a limited power of attorney £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a licence to occupy £100 (ex. VAT)
• Preparing or approving a key undertaking £100 (ex. VAT)
• Approval of title to an additional parcel of land or registered title £100 (ex. VAT)
• Discharging a charge to the Legal Aid Agency £150 (ex. VAT)
• Dealing with an offer of bridging finance £200 (ex. VAT)
• Advising in relation to a guarantor £150 (ex. VAT)

The precise stages involved in the sale of a residential leasehold property vary according to the circumstances.

The standard fee set above in connection with a sale of a registered leasehold title covers the following services:

1. Supplying you with our client care package to include a written estimate of costs and disbursements.
2. Obtaining evidence of identity and address from you and carrying out Anti Money Laundering searches in accordance with statutory requirements.
3. Obtaining title documentation from the Land Registry.
4. Obtaining your instructions on standard form property enquiries.
5. Obtaining replies to standard enquires form the Landlord/Managing Agent
6. Preparing draft contract and supporting paperwork and submitting the same to the conveyancer acting for your buyer.
7. Agreeing the form of contract and transfer deed with the conveyancer acting for your buyer.
8. Obtaining your instructions on and responding to supplemental enquires raised by the conveyancer for your buyer.
9. Arranging for you to sign the contract and transfer documentation.
10. Discussing with you your requirements for a completion date.
11. Exchanging contracts.
12. Obtaining a repayment figure for one mortgage account.
13. Receiving your estate agent’s commission account.
14. Preparing a completion statement for you setting out the financial aspects of the sale.
15. Dealing with the completion of the sale.
16. Paying off one mortgage account from the proceeds of sale.
17. Paying your estate agent from the proceeds of sale.
18. Accounting to you with any balance of funds due.
19. Storing your file for 6 years in accordance with SRA requirements

Mortgage/ re-mortgage

Our fees cover work required to complete the mortgage/ re-mortgage of your home, including dealing with registration at the Land Registry.

Conveyancer’s fees and disbursements

• Legal fee: £450 plus VAT
• Fee for acting on behalf of the mortgage lender: included in the above
• Search fees: Fees vary from one Local Authority to the next, however typically in the range of £250 to £500 (inc VAT)
• Electronic money transfer fee £30 (inc VAT)

Disbursements

Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as search fees. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process. There are certain disbursements which will be set out in the individual lease relating to the Property. The disbursements which we anticipate will apply are set out separately below. This list is not exhaustive and other disbursements may apply depending on the term of the lease. We will update you on the specific fees upon receipt and review of the lease from the seller’s solicitors.

• HM Land Registry fee please follow link below:
  https://www.gov.uk/guidance/hm-land-registry-registration-services-fees
• Search fees: Fees vary from one Local Authority to the next, however typically in the range of £250 to £500 (inc. VAT)
• Electronic money transfer fee: £30 (inc. VAT)
• Land Registry pre-completion search £3.00 per title searched
• Bankruptcy/Land Charges search: £2.00 per name searched
• Anti-Money Laundering search – £6.00 per name searched (inc. VAT).

Anticipated Disbursements*

• Notice of Transfer fee (if applicable)– This fee if chargeable is usually set out in the title documentation. Often the fee is between £50- £200.
• Notice of Charge fee (if the property is to be mortgaged) – This fee is set out in the title documentation. Often the fee is between £50 and £200.
• Deed of Covenant fee – This fee is provided by the management company for the property and can be difficult to estimate. Often it is between £50 and £200.
• Certificate of Compliance fee – To be confirmed upon receipt of the title documentation, as can range between £50 – £200.

*These fees vary from property to property and can on occasion be significantly more than the ranges given above. We will be better able to give you an accurate figure once we have sight of your specific documents. Our fees assumes that:

1. this is a standard transaction and that no unforeseen matters arise including for example (but not limited to) a defect in title which requires remedying prior to completion or the preparation of additional documents ancillary to the main transaction
2. this is the assignment of an existing lease and is not the grant of a new lease
3. the transaction is concluded in a timely manner and no unforeseen complication arise
4. all parties to the transaction are co-operative and there is no unreasonable delay from third parties providing documentation
5. no indemnity policies are required. Additional disbursements may apply if indemnity policies are required.

Probate (uncontested)

1) Applying for the Grant of Probate only (this will be where the executors provide us with date of death valuations, the executors cash in all assets themselves and make the distributions direct)

Taxable Estate

We anticipate this will take between 6 and 8 hours work at £220.00 per hour + VAT. Total costs estimated at £1,320.00 – £1,760.00 (+VAT).

Non-Taxable Estate

We anticipate this will take between 3 and 4 hours work at £220.00 per hour + VAT. Total costs estimated at £660.00 – £880.00 (+VAT).

2) Ascertaining the deceased’s assets and liabilities and making the application for the grant of probate (executors cash in the assets themselves and make the distributions direct)

Taxable Estate

We anticipate this will take between 10 and 12 hours work at £220.00 per hour + VAT. Total costs estimated at £2,200.00 – £2,640.00 (+VAT).

Non-Taxable Estate

We anticipate this will take between 7 and 9 hours work at £220.00 per hour + VAT. Total costs estimated at £1,540.00 – £1,980.00 (+VAT).

3) Making the application for the grant of probate and cashing in the assets and making final distributions (executors provide us with all date of death valuations)

Taxable Estate

We anticipate this will take between 12 and 17 hours work at £220.00 per hour + VAT. Total costs estimated at ££2,640.00 – £3,740.00 (+VAT).

Non-Taxable Estate

We anticipate this will take between 9 and 14 hours work at £220.00 per hour + VAT. Total costs estimated at £1,980.00 – £3,080.00(+VAT).

4) Ascertaining the deceased’s assets and liabilities and making the application for the grant of probate, we also cash in all assets and make the distributions ourselves

Taxable Estate

We anticipate this will take between 15 and 20 hours work at £220.00 per hour + VAT. Total costs estimated at £3,300.00- £4,400.00 (+VAT).

Non-Taxable Estate

We anticipate this will take between 12 and 17 hours work at £220.00 per hour + VAT. Total costs estimated at £2,640.00 – £3,740.00 (+VAT).

The exact cost will depend on the individual circumstances of the matter. For example, if there is one beneficiary and no property, costs will 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.

We will handle the full process for you. This quote is for estates where:

• There is a valid will
• There is no more than one property
• There are no more than 5 banks or building society accounts or other financial institutions to deal with i.e. insurance companies.
• There are no other intangible assets
• There are between 1-5 beneficiaries
• There are no disputes between beneficiaries on division of assets. If disputes arise this is likely to lead to an increase in costs
• There are no claims made against the estate

Disbursements for all cases

1. Commissioner’s Fee – the charge of swearing the personal representatives Oath is currently £5. With an additional cost of £2 per Will/Codicil.
2. Probate Registry Fee – for issuing the Grant. This is currently a flat fee of £155.00.
3. Additional Court copies of the Grant document – this will depend on the number required but the charge is presently £0.50 per copy.
4. Valuers’ Fees – if certain specific assets need to be valued i.e. if the estate is taxable a surveyors report needs to be carried out, the fees for this are approximately £500.00 depending on which company is used.
5. If it is necessary to travel outside the office on your business then mileage will be charged at 45p a mile plus VAT.
6. Accountant’s fees for completing tax returns to the date of death and during administration, estimated £300-£500.
7. Bankruptcy-only Land Charges Department searches (£2 per beneficiary but a lot more if a beneficiary lives overseas.)
8. £100.00 Post in The London Gazette – Protects against unexpected claims from unknown creditors.
9. £70.00 Post in a Local Newspaper – This also helps to protect against unexpected claims.

Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as court fees. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process.

Potential additional costs

• If there is no will or the estate consists of any share holdings (stocks and bonds) there is likely to be additional costs that could range significantly depending on the estate and how it is to be dealt with. We can give you a more accurate quote once we have more information.
• Dealing with the sale or transfer of any property in the estate is not included.
• If there is a property to clear/empty and no family members or friends to assist. The costs can significantly increase.

How long will this take?

On average, a taxable estate can take up to 5 months to obtain the grant of probate. This is because HMRC have to preliminarily approve the account sent to them, this approval can take up to 3 months. Once they have preliminary approved the account, the estate is then free to apply for the grant of probate. HMRC will then take a closer look at the account and will then issue a clearance certificate when satisfied all assets have been accounted for correctly. It is not until the estate receives a clearance certificate that final distributions can be made. This can take anything from 6 months to 2 years.

If the estate is not taxable the grant of probate can usually be obtained within 2-3 months. HMRC are not involved and the whole process is a lot quicker and the beneficiaries can receive their inheritance a lot more swiftly.

If there is a property to sell, this depends on the market and how quickly it can sell. Beneficiaries may be waiting between 6 months to 2 years to receive their final distributions.

Interim distributions to beneficiaries can be made where there are available funds.

The Solicitors who work in this area are:

• Kelly Rogers – Head of Department
• John Smart
• Shadi Meehan
• Sharon Hawkes
• They are all supervised overall by William Griffiths – Partner

Motoring offences (summary offences)

Motoring Offences Fees

Drink Drive/Excess Alcohol/Under the influence of drugs

• Drink Drive Guilty Plea single hearing (Exclusive of travel)     £350+vat
• Drink Drive Guilty plea dealt with in two hearings                   £500+vat
• Drink Drive -Not Guilty Plea -trial approx. 5-8 hours at           £192-220 per hour + VAT

Speeding Offences

• Guilty Plea single hearing (Excluding travel) £350+vat
• Guilty plea with an exceptional hardship argument against disqualification or Totting disqualification £500+vat
• Trial (will depend upon the number of witnesses involved and use of expert evidence)
• Approx.4-8 hours at £192-220 per hour + VAT (Excluding travel and Experts costs)

Driving Offences (Magistrates Court) General

Driving offences such as No Insurance-Driving without Due Care / Dangerous Driving/ Defective Vehicle. (Construction and Use offences) HGV/Licence offences /Fail to stop and fail to report an accident.

• Guilty Plea -Single Hearing (Exclusive of Travel).  £350+vat
• Guilty plea with a second hearing or an Exceptional Hardship/Special Reasons Hearing £500+vat
• Trial (Will depending on number of prosecution witnesses and defence witnesses to be interviewed) Approx. 5-10 hours at £ 192-220 per hour + VAT (Excluding any expert witness costs if required).

Other Unspecified Motoring Offences

• Giving advice – assisting in completing Single Justice Procedure Notices or NOIP or similar £100+vat
• Giving general advice     £192+vat per hour
• Preparing a letter of mitigation     £100+vat

NB:
1. Travel to be charged at £100+vat per hour and 45 pence per mile.
2. In the case non-fixed fee cases letters and telephone calls are charged at 10% of the hourly rate.

In the case of trials – each will require different levels of preparation and hearing time. After we have assessed your individual case we will be able to provide a more accurate figure. The estimates quoted above are a generalisation based on our experience.

Fixed Fees for Guilty plea matters (One and two hearings).

(Assuming a decision has been made that a Guilty Plea is appropriate)

Fixed Fees include: –

• Meeting with the client either at one of our offices, by telephone or via e-mail (depending on the client’s situation and the complexity of the matter).
• Taking Instructions
• Obtaining prosecution evidence
• Where required liaising with the Court and Prosecution
• Advising on the evidence and procedure including Special Reasons and Exceptional Hardship Submissions
• Advising on likely sentence or penalty.
• Attendance and representation at the Magistrates Court (Once or Twice). Advising on any potential appeal that may arise

NB: Should a case become more complicated or protracted after we have been instructed we have an obligation to let you know of the impact on our fees before undertaking additional work.

Fixed Fees Do Not Include: –

• Instructing Expert Witnesses
• Taking Witness Statements
• Conducting any appeal proceedings arising from the original case.

Trials (Not Fixed Fees)- Magistrates Court

(Assuming a Not Guilty Plea has been instructed by the client).

Work that is undertaken in the preparation of a trial: –

• Meeting with our client and take initial instructions.
• Obtain copies of the prosecution evidence
• Reading and considering the prosecution case
• Advising on the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution case
• Attending the scene of an event if necessary.
• Advising on law and procedure
• Taking further instructions
• Interviewing any potential prosecution witnesses
• Instruct any Expert Witnesses that may be required- (Additional Costs may be charged by the Expert which the client will be liable for).
• Draft and file all documents and legal submissions required to comply with regulations
• Prepare for and represent the client at his/her trial before the Magistrates Court (Including further meetings with the client as required).
• Liaising with the Court and Prosecution as required.
• After the trial discuss the outcome and any potential appeal if appropriate.

(Conducting an appeal would be subject to separate fee)

The Solicitors / Caseworkers who undertake this area of work are as follows: –

• Richard Griffiths
• Nigel Holt
• Ray Tan
• Nicola Attwood
• Andrew Watts-Jones
• Matthew George
• Ann Ellery
• Bob Scott

The crime team are supervised by Ray Tan as the Head of Department and he is overall supervised by William Griffiths, partner and Richard Griffiths, the senior partner.

Employment tribunals (unfair or wrongful dismissal)

Employment tribunal: Range of costs

Our pricing for bringing and defending claims for unfair or wrongful dismissal:

• Simple case: £900 – £1,350 (excluding VAT)
• Medium complexity case: £1350 – £6750 (excluding VAT)
• High complexity case: £6750 – £22,500 (excluding VAT)

Factors that could make a case more complex:

• If it is necessary to make or defend applications to amend claims or to provide further information about an existing claim
• Defending claims that are brought by litigants in person
• Making or defending a costs application
• Complex preliminary issues such as whether the claimant is disabled (if this is not agreed by the parties)
• The number of witnesses and documents
• If it is an automatic unfair dismissal claim e.g. if you are dismissed after blowing the whistle on your employer
• Allegations of discrimination which are linked to the dismissal

There will be an additional charge for attending a Tribunal Hearing of £675 per day (excluding VAT). Generally, we would allow 1-3 days depending on the complexity of your case.

Disbursements

Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as court fees. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process.

Counsel’s fees estimated between £1000 to £2000 per day (depending on experience of the advocate) for attending a Tribunal Hearing (including preparation)

Key stages

The fees set out above cover all of the work in relation to the following key stages of a claim:

• Taking your initial instructions, reviewing the papers and advising you on merits and likely compensation (this is likely to be revisited throughout the matter and subject to change)
• Entering into pre-claim conciliation where this is mandatory to explore whether a settlement can be reached;
• Preparing claim or response
• Reviewing and advising on claim or response from other party
• Exploring settlement and negotiating settlement throughout the process
• preparing or considering a schedule of loss
• Preparing for (and attending) a Preliminary Hearing
• Exchanging documents with the other party and agreeing a bundle of documents
• Taking witness statements, drafting statements and agreeing their content with witnesses
• preparing bundle of documents
• Reviewing and advising on the other party’s witness statements
• agreeing a list of issues, a chronology and/or cast list
• Preparation and attendance at Final Hearing, including instructions to Counsel

The stages set out above are an indication and if some of stages above are not required, the fee will be reduced. You may wish to handle the claim yourself and only have our advice in relation to some of the stages. This can also be arranged on your individual needs.

How long will my matter take?

The time that it takes from taking your initial instructions to the final resolution of your matter depends largely on the stage at which your case is resolved. If a settlement is reached during pre-claim conciliation, your case is likely to take 1-7 weeks. If your claim proceeds to a Final Hearing, your case is likely to take 25-40 weeks. This is just an estimate and we will of course be able to give you a more accurate timescale once we have more information and as the matter progresses.

Employment Tribunal claims are dealt with by Mike Edgar. Mike Edgar is supervised by Richard Griffiths – Senior Partner.

Debt recovery: Range of fixed fees

Court Claims

These costs apply where your claim is in relation to an unpaid invoice which is not disputed and enforcement action is not needed. If the other party disputes your claim at any point, we will discuss any further work required and provide you with revised advice about costs if necessary, which could be on a fixed fee (e.g. if a one-off letter is required), or an hourly rate if more extensive work is needed.

Debt value	Court fee	Our fee
Up to £5,000	£35  – 205	£450 ( plus VAT)
£5,001 – £10,000	£455	£450 (plus VAT)
£10,001 – £50,000	5% value of the claim	£900 (plus VAT)

Anyone wishing to proceed with a claim should note that:

• The VAT element of our fee cannot be reclaimed from your debtor.
• Interest and compensation may take the debt into a higher banding, with a higher cost.
• The costs quoted above are not for matters where enforcement action, such as the bailiff, is needed to collect your debt.

Our fee includes:

• Taking your instructions and reviewing documentation
• Undertaking appropriate searches
• Sending a letter before action
• Receiving payment and sending onto you, or if the debt is not paid, drafting and issuing claim
• Where no Acknowledgment of Service or Defence is received, applying to the court to enter Judgement in default
• When Judgement in default in received, write to the other side to request payment
• If payment is not received, providing you with advice on next steps and likely costs

Matters usually take 1-8 weeks from receipt of instructions from you to receipt of payment from the other side, depending on whether or not it is necessary to issue a claim. This is on the basis that the other side pays promptly on receipt of Judgement in default. If enforcement action is needed, the matter will take longer to resolve.”

Debt Recovery claims are dealt with by Mike Edgar. Mike Edgar is supervised by Richard Griffiths – Senior Partner.