Extortionate Probate Fees - Help

Can anyone help?

My partner's Mother signed her will over to a will handling company. She nominated her son and daughter as executors. When she died we found a certificate that instructed us to contact the will handling company (ITC [Gloucestershire] who worked under the Woolwich; now under the control of Barclays Bank). The company reluctantly sent someone out to speak to my partner and his sister and they signed power of executor over to ITC, so that they could take things on from there. In the meantime they have received an extortionate quote for the amount that my partner and his sister will have to give them when everything has been processed. The ITC representative deliberately withheld any information about how much it would cost; telling my partner and his sister that it would be 'easier for everyone' if they signed over power of executor etc..

We believe the company exploited my partner's Mother in her frail and vulnerable state even though her signature on the papers was witnessed by her neighbours. her neighbours didn't really know what they were witnessing. It can't be legal for companies to prey on vulnerable old ladies can it? Who can we appeal to regarding the fees? Is there an ombudsman or some sort of authority?

Helpful advice would be appreciated (as opposed to opinions).. Thanks Vonnie

Reply to
Vonnie
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In message , Vonnie writes

I dont understand. You say that is was your partner and his sister who signed the executorship over to ITC, not your partner's mother. It would appear she only asked them to prepare the will. It is you partner and his sister who appear to be at fault here.

They wont have 'signed over' the executorship, but merely appointed ITC to do the work. I would think they could wiggle out of it now if the act quick enough.

How much was the quote and what is in the estate?

Reply to
john boyle

Crossposted to uk.legal

Try uk legal.moderated as well.

A legal costs draftsman might be worth considering -

For basic background info. try the Which? guides.

Daytona

Reply to
Daytona

Hi John,

Thanks for your help.

The Estate is worth approximately £200K, and ITC are asking for 4% plus various fees. So that's over £10K.

Yvonne

Reply to
Vonnie

Thanks for your help.

The Estate is worth approximately 200K, and ITC are asking for 4% plus various fees. So that's over 10K.

Yvonne

Sounds OTT to me, unless there are complex (and time consuming issues).

I would suggest obtaining several more Quotes.

Reply to
Doug Ramage

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