A local firm of solicitors is praising the enhanced performance of the UK’s probate sector over the last year which has seen thousands of client applications turned around in just seven working days.
Shrewsbury-based PCB Solicitors has welcomed the latest reports which suggest the Probate Service has significantly improved its efficiency, issuing 161,000 grants of representation submitted by solicitors to within the target of seven working days. The target for personal applications of eight weeks was also met in 97.6 per cent of cases.
A grant of representation is issued to an individual who is dealing with the estate of someone who has passed away, enabling them to collect any money, deal with any assets such as sell shares or a house and pay off debts that may have been owed by the deceased.
The improvements coincide with newly implemented changes to the probate application fee structure, which came into action on 22nd April. The changes will see probate applications through a solicitor rise to £155, and personal applications increase to £215.
Julie Griffiths, Wills and Probate Specialist at PCB Solicitors, explained: “The Probate Service report is fantastic news as it demonstrates that individuals that are utilising the support of a solicitor are receiving a quick and convenient service, rather than having to wait weeks on end as previously expected, or if they progress the application themselves. The death of a loved one can be extremely distressing and the faster service enables them to start the estate administration process without any red tape delays.
“The increase in fees is obviously frustrating, and means individuals will have to pay an increased cost when applying for probate. I’d urge anyone that needs to start the probate process to get in touch on 01694723818 or to call their nearest office to talk through their options.”
PCB Solicitors LLP is a modern partnership, with offices in Shrewsbury, Broseley, Church Stretton, Craven Arms, Knighton, Ludlow, Telford, and Worcester. While they have origins back to 1860, the firm is forward-looking and offers a full range of legal advice for both individuals and businesses, including property, family advice and childcare matters, wills, trusts, probate and estate planning, accident and personal injury, litigation, criminal law and corporate and business law.
For further information about PCB Solicitors’ complete range of legal services, please contact the Shrewsbury Head Office on 01743 248148 or visit the website via the link.
