Answers to the questions we are asked most often. If yours is not here, please get in touch.
There is no legal requirement to instruct a solicitor, but a professionally drafted Will is far less likely to be challenged or misinterpreted. Home-made Wills are the single most common cause of contested probate applications in England & Wales.
A Property & Financial Affairs LPA allows your chosen attorneys to manage bank accounts, property and investments. A Health & Welfare LPA allows them to make decisions about your medical care and daily welfare — including, if you wish, life-sustaining treatment. Most clients grant both.
A straightforward Grant of Probate typically takes 8–14 weeks from the date of application to HMCTS. Full estate administration — from death to final distribution — usually completes within 9–12 months. Estates requiring HMRC clearance or property sales can take longer.
Not necessarily. If your total assets are below £23,250 (2025/26 threshold) the Local Authority contributes to your care costs. There are lawful planning options and deferred payment agreements available. We can review your position without obligation.
Yes — home, hospital, hospice and care home visits are a routine part of our practice, not an exception. Within 20 miles of Tunbridge Wells there is no mileage surcharge.
If no Lasting Power of Attorney is in place, an application to the Court of Protection for a Deputyship Order is required. We prepare these applications regularly and can act as professional Deputy where the family prefer.
The vast majority of our work is fixed-fee, quoted in writing before we start. Where a matter is complex or unpredictable — such as contested probate — we work on hourly rates agreed with you and provide monthly billing summaries.
Yes. Berry & Lamberts LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). We are also members of Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE) and STEP.
