Dealing with an estate or acting as a trustee can feel overwhelming, particularly at an already difficult time.
We provide clear, practical support, guiding you through each stage and taking care of the technical and administrative detail so you can focus on what matters most.
We act for executors, trustees, families and advisers, whether there is a Will in place or not, both for a short period or on an ongoing basis.
Probate is the process of administering a person’s estate after they have died. This can involve valuing assets, settling tax and debts and distributing the estate to beneficiaries.
We support executors throughout the process, offering reassurance, clarity and careful attention to detail.
Our probate and estate administration services include:
Here is a breakdown of each stage of the probate process that we can support you with:
Applying for probate
We begin by gathering the necessary information about the estate and preparing the required tax returns and probate application.
Administering the estate
Once probate has been granted, we collect assets, settle liabilities and, where appropriate, make interim distributions to beneficiaries.
Tax review
We liaise with HMRC to agree any Inheritance Tax or Capital Gains Tax liabilities and deal with any Deeds of Variation that may be required.
Final accounts and distributions
We prepare final estate accounts and, once approved, make final distributions to beneficiaries and complete the administration.
Dealing with probate is often unfamiliar and emotionally demanding. Choosing the right adviser can make a significant difference to both the experience and the outcome.
We combine technical expertise with a personal, measured approach.
Clear, practical guidance
We explain each stage of the process in plain English, keeping you informed and supported throughout.
Experienced probate and tax specialists
Our team has extensive experience handling estates of all sizes and levels of complexity, including those with significant tax considerations.
Attention to detail
Probate involves strict legal and tax requirements. We take care to ensure everything is handled accurately and properly.
A sensitive, personal service
We understand that this is often a difficult time. Our approach is respectful, patient and tailored to your circumstances.
Continuity and reassurance
Whether you need help with part of the process or full estate administration, you will have a consistent point of contact throughout.
If you need assistance managing the probate process our experienced team are here and happy to help you. To find out more about our services, please get in touch.
Every estate is different. Timescales can vary depending on complexity, asset types and third-party involvement. Most estates take between six months and two years to complete.
We aim to progress matters efficiently, while ensuring everything is handled correctly and with care.
Here are some examples of work and the associated costs*:
A straightforward estate
Residential property, investments and cash.
Approximate fees: £3,500 plus VAT.
A complex estate
Company shares, residential and commercial property, farmland and investments.
Approximate fees: £15,300 plus VAT.
A highly complex estate
Multiple companies, residential, commercial and agricultural land, unusual investments and significant debts, with Deanegate Trustees Limited appointed as executor.
Fees available on request.
* Please be aware that these are only an example of our fees. The cost of our services may vary depending on the complexity of the estate or trust that is involved.
In some situations, appointing a professional trustee can provide reassurance, continuity and impartial oversight.
We act as professional trustees, either alone or alongside family members or other advisers, particularly where trusts are complex or long-term.
When trusteeship support may be appropriate
Our trusteeship role includes
Appointing a professional trustee is an important decision, particularly where responsibilities extend over many years or where independence is essential.
Our experts provide experience and impartial oversight, helping ensure trusts are managed properly and in line with their purpose.
Independent and objective oversight
We act impartially and in the best interests of the trust, helping to manage sensitive situations and reduce the risk of conflict.
Long-term continuity
As a professional trustee, we provide consistency over time, regardless of changes in personal circumstances or family involvement.
Strong technical expertise
Our team has extensive experience in trust taxation, compliance and reporting, ensuring obligations are met accurately and on time.
Clear communication with beneficiaries and advisers
We liaise carefully and transparently with beneficiaries, solicitors, investment advisers and HMRC, keeping all parties appropriately informed.
A measured, responsible approach
We focus on protecting assets, managing risk and ensuring decisions are well documented and compliant with fiduciary duties.
If you need assistance managing a trust our knowledgeable team can support you. To find out more about our services, please get in touch.
Our fees are based on the time involved and the complexity of the work. Before we begin, we provide a clear written estimate, setting out what is included and what is not.
If circumstances change and fees are likely to increase, we will always discuss this with you in advance.
Our hourly rates
| Partners | £235 – £275 + VAT |
| Managers and Supervisors | £102 – £190 + VAT |
| Administrative Staff | £44 – £107 + VAT |
Our team brings together extensive experience in probate, trusts and taxation, offering both technical expertise and a supportive, approachable service.
Mike works with a diverse range of private clients, trusts, executors and personal representatives, offering a comprehensive compliance service coupled with bespoke advice.
Mike likes to build close working relationships with all his clients, so that all aspects of their financial and personal affairs can be considered when advising. He does not believe that there is a “silver bullet” that makes an individual, trust or estate’s tax affairs as efficient as possible forever and, as a result, Mike always works on establishing successful, long-term, professional relationships.
Simon is an experienced accountant and tax adviser. He has dealt with the tax, business and personal financial affairs of a multitude of clients for over 20 years.
He is a chartered accountant, chartered tax adviser and holds the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners diploma. Having the qualifications to go along with his extensive experience makes sure that his clients feel reassured, with a qualified expert on-hand to administer an estate.
With a background in Insolvency and Business Recovery, Rachel has extensive practical experience in securing and protecting the assets within an estate, and once the Grant of Probate has been obtained, ensuring their realisation and distribution.
Rachel understands the importance of managing the on-going administration of an estate, from identifying the estate creditors and settling the outstanding liabilities, to liaising with Beneficiaries and making the distributions to the Legatees in the most efficient manner.
Ben is a Chartered Tax Adviser, member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and a Fellow of the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT). Ben has over a decade of experience and specialises in personal tax planning, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, international taxation, UK residency and domicile issues.
Ben is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to navigate complex tax matters, providing valuable advice to trusts and estates as well as private clients and partnerships. Ben has a particular specialism in dealing with the taxation of non-resident (“offshore”) trusts.
Deanegate Trustees Limited is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and eliminating unlawful discrimination.
We regularly review our policies and practices to ensure fairness, transparency and equal opportunity for all.
