In February, ministers announced plans to increase probate fees from the current fixed fee of £215 or £155 with a solicitor to a sliding scale ranging from £250 to £6,000, depending on the value of the estate. However, the government U-turned this week, following a lengthy campaign by solicitors.
Law Society president Simon Davis said: ‘We campaigned vigorously against the increase on behalf of bereaved families and are relieved the government has listened to reason.
‘It is inherently unfair to expect the bereaved to fund other parts of the courts and tribunal service when they have no other option but to apply for probate.’
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: ‘Fees are necessary to properly fund our world-leading courts system, but we have listened carefully to concerns around changes to those charged for probate and will look at them again as part of a wider review to make sure all fees are fair and proportionate.’
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