Some clients want to deal with a local probate lawyer and I can see the attraction.

People still think it’s necessary to go to an office, physically shake hands and deliver papers.

I’m going to encourage you to think another way.

Since the legal profession went through the Covid period, having to adapt in all sorts of ways, I believe the geography of where your lawyer is based, is less relevant than ever.

More important to me, is what the service is going to be like, and whether a fixed fee can be agreed which feels fair. For the work that needs to be done, whether that’s not very much or quite involved and complex.

I’m currently of the view that some of the best service on offer, is in no way connected to where the bereaved family live.

Some professionals are very good indeed, at co-ordinating overseas assets and what posh legal speak calls “cross border, inter-jurisdictional issues” which may arise.

Others are very hot on dealing with executors who live in another country, mindful of timezone differences and specific needs and sometimes additional services (they may find it difficult to clear a property, for example).

Many professionals are now more geared up to spot other needs such as grief counselling.

If you feel you need to walk into a local Solicitors office for Probate services, you’re limiting your options.

And if you feel you have the time, the energy and the bandwidth to ring around, please make sure that fixed fees are part of your discussion.

I personally feel good when I hear people are ringing round, as long as you give me the opportunity to add something to your Probate experience. Sometimes people aren’t aware that the funeral can be paid from the estate, even before you’ve dealt with anything else. Others are not aware of transferring tax allowances within the deadlines.

If you’d like me and my team to provide you with a fixed fee quotation for you and your family to reflect upon, please get in touch.