Probate, Trusts, Wills & Tax Planning – Your Questions Answered
Expert guidance from Bone & Payne’s private client team — helping you prepare for the future, manage estates and protect your loved ones.
What Is Probate Law?
Q: What does probate cover?
Probate refers to the legal process of managing the affairs of someone who has died. This includes paying any debts or tax due, selling property if necessary, and distributing the estate according to the terms of a Will — or under the statutory rules of intestacy if no valid Will exists.
Why Is Having a Will Important?
Q: Why should I make a Will?
A professionally drafted Will ensures that your property and personal belongings pass to the people you choose. Without a Will, the intestacy rules determine who inherits, which may result in outcomes you would not want for your loved ones. A Will can also help to prevent family disputes and reduce the risk of costly legal challenges after death.
What Are Trusts and When Are They Used?
Q: What is a trust, and why might I need one?
A trust is a legal arrangement where someone looks after money or assets for another person. Trusts are often used in Wills and can also be helpful for individuals with specific needs, such as disabled beneficiaries or children, as well as in blended families or as part of wider care‑fee planning. Bone & Payne’s team can assist with creating and administering trusts tailored to your circumstances.
How Can Bone & Payne Help with Tax Planning?
Q: What does tax planning involve?
Tax planning focuses on structuring your estate, including the use of Wills, trusts and other arrangements to minimise inheritance tax, maximise available reliefs and ensure that your assets pass to your chosen beneficiaries as efficiently as possible. Professional advice can help reduce the amount of tax payable by the estate and ensure that your affairs are organised in the most effective way.
Who Are Your Probate & Wills Specialists?
Q: Who will handle my matter?
Bone & Payne’s private client team includes experienced solicitors specialising in this area. Members regularly advising on Wills, trusts, probate and tax planning include:
Carys Jenkins
Partner & Notary Public
Gwyndaf Pari
Managing Partner
Gareth Tierney-Jones
Consultant
Roger Griffith
Consultant
Ceri Wynne
Solicitor
Eleanor Yates
Solicitor
Branwen Sion
Solicitor (Contentious Estates)
Bethan Hughes
Solicitor
Rebecca Jones
Solicitor
Lucy Yates
Paralegal
Wendy Jefferies
Paralegal
How Are Your Charges Structured?
Q: What will the costs be?
We offer a bespoke service at competitive rates, with transparent fees discussed before you commit. Fixed prices are available for straightforward Wills:
- Individual Will: From £250 + VAT
- Mirror Wills: From £350 + VAT
Additional elements such as trusts, multiple legacies, inheritance tax planning, capacity reports, etc may incur extra costs.
For probate and estate administration, fees depend on factors such as whether a valid Will exists, the number of beneficiaries, the complexity of the estate and any tax issues involved. We provide a written estimate tailored to your circumstances, so you know what to expect before any work begins.
What Additional Costs Might Apply?
Q: Are there extra fees I should know about?
Yes — some additional costs (often called disbursements) may include:
- Probate Registry fee (e.g., £301.50 plus £16 per sealed Grant)
- Valuation fees for property or possessions
- Other professional fees related to the estate administration
We always confirm these with you upfront.
How Long Does Administration Take?
Q: How long does the process usually take?
Most estates can be administered within 6 to 12 months, though complex estates — particularly those involving inheritance tax, foreign assets or disputes — may take longer.
How Do I Get Started?
Q: How can I instruct Bone & Payne?
Contact our team to discuss your needs and get a tailored quote. We will guide you step-by-step with professional care and clear communication.