DIY probate risks on the rise, court figures showIncreasing numbers of people are risking costly litigation by handling probate matters without legal advice, lawyers claimed yesterday.
Figures from the Chancery Division of the High Court show that the number of probate applications made not involving a solicitor have leapt from 28 per cent a decade ago to 37 per cent now.
At the same time, the number of disputes over wills, trusts and probate in the High Court has more than doubled, up from 289 in 2004 to 623 last year.
“There is a perception that proceeding with probate without a solicitor can save money in fees, but this is often a false economy leading to significant problems later for little financial saving.”
Lawyers also forecast that government proposals to increase probate fees could encourage even more members of the public to attempt DIY solutions.
Under the proposed regime, estates worth less than £50,000 would be exempt from fees but up to £20,000 in fees will be levied on more valuable estates. Currently the court fee for a grant of probate costs £155, or £215 if a solicitor is not used.
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