You may be surprised to learn that you do not need to use a solicitor to deal with all the things needing to be done following a death. You could even do it yourself, although attending to the affairs and fulfilling the wishes of a loved one can be overwhelming at a time when you are least able to face the task emotionally. If you are not familiar with dealing with HM Revenue & Customs its forms can seem quite daunting, too! There are many legal and financial implications to consider when administering an Estate and most of us need some professional guidance.

Our Taxation, Accountancy, Probate and Trusts Department strives to provide a professional service but also ensure value for money. It is not always a case of ‘you get what you pay for’! We have the knowledge and capability to handle all aspects of the Application for Probate, Estate Administration and to deal direct with the HMRC; often securing tax refunds for the Estate. Since the introduction of our Probate Department we have administered in the region of £17 million of Estates.

Our charges are based purely on the time spent whilst most other professionals will charge an additional percentage of the gross value of the Estate, sometimes up to as high as 5%. With an Estate worth £250,000 even a 2% charge would be £5,000 before any time-costed work at perhaps £150 per hour is undertaken! Whilst you may believe you do not have much money or you don’t have too many possessions, we are all aware that property prices have risen substantially over recent years increasing the value of estates significantly.

We realise that every client is individual and the level of support and assistance required through the process will vary. These needs are assessed carefully with an initial consultation which is without charge or obligation. You may feel that you are able to handle some of the administration yourself and we always encourage this to help keep costs to an absolute minimum.

You may feel that you want to protect your family from the additional upset and stress and wish to appoint Philip J Milton & Company Plc as an Executor within your Will - this is a service which many of our clients have been happy to utilise. Since the introduction of our Will writing Department in 2000, almost three-quarters of our clients have ‘named’ the Company as executor or jointly along with a close family member or friend. Naming us ensures that all the institutions will liaise with us direct; negating the worry for your family to undertake the necessary paperwork at a time when they are coming to terms with their loss. We also store Wills without charge. If you would like further information on our executorship service or would appreciate advice regarding your Will please contact us for a free, no obligation consultation.