MOJ to push ahead with probate fee hike

Last night, the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) revealed it is pushing ahead with previously withdrawn plans to shift probate costs in England and Wales from a flat fee to a tier-based structure. The proposals would replace the current £215 flat fee (£155 if using a solicitor), with a banded basis that is likely to mean large estates will face a huge increase in fees. Last year the MOJ proposed tiered charges ranging from £300 to £20,000 depending on estate value before inheritance tax (IHT), however these were put on hold in the run up to the General Election. While the full details of the...