No rise in probate fees

ILM is delighted that the government has axed its proposed increase to probate fees.

The proposed increase, which could have seen fees of up to £6,000, was axed by Justice Secretary Robert Buckland.

ILM has been campaigning against the rise for months, arguing that the fees would have a knock-on effect on charities as people might simply not apply for probate in order to avoid paying the fee, thus potentially passing the cost on to charities if they step in to act as administrator. We estimated that this might cost the sector £8m per year.

We are very pleased that this proposal has now been axed, with only a very small increase to cover costs now expected to be introduced.

We continue to work with HMCTS on the delays at the probate registry, and will keep members fully up-to-date with any changes or progress.