The UK Government announced an increase in the probate fee structure earlier this week, meaning that from April 2019, fees payable to court to obtain  a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration, which are needed to take control of a deceased’s estate, will be significantly higher.

Despite amending the original proposals, which were shelved 18 months ago, including capping the top level of fees at £6,000 as opposed to the original suggestion of £20,000, the announcement has provoked negative reactions from the private client industry.

John Annetts, partner and head of administration of estates at ...