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Probate and property sale

7 replies

igor · 26/06/2023 11:48

How long would you say is reasonable to expect to receive funds from a deceased estate? In this situation DM died 2 years ago, reasonably small estate with 3 bank accounts and a house to sell. The solicitor instructed to deal with the estate took over a year to apply for probate, then another long period to have the property put on the market where it was purchased by a cash buyer.

The house completed over a week ago, I only know this as the neighbours let me know the sold sign was removed and the estate agent confirmed that this was the case.

I have heard nothing from the solicitor! I'm reluctant to call or email as I am charged £25 minimum for any email received or message left (even though they only reply to the occasional email/message). I know that there are no outstanding bills to be paid such as funeral costs, as a small amount was paid out from cash funds several months ago and all costs were paid at this point.

OP posts:
LadyGaGasPokerFace · 26/06/2023 12:15

Cheeky solicitor is probably sitting on the money earning interest. Give them a ring and tell them you want the money in your account ASAP.

prh47bridge · 26/06/2023 13:10

LadyGaGasPokerFace · 26/06/2023 12:15

Cheeky solicitor is probably sitting on the money earning interest. Give them a ring and tell them you want the money in your account ASAP.

The money will be in a client account. Any interest goes to the client, not the solicitor.

However, the solicitor has been very slow. Most estates can be dealt with in a year or so after death. You could complain. The firm will have a complaints procedure you can use.

Bromptotoo · 26/06/2023 13:50

Does your brother live in the house?

Bromptotoo · 26/06/2023 13:50

Bromptotoo · 26/06/2023 13:50

Does your brother live in the house?

Sorry, wrong thread.

CharlotteStreetW1 · 26/06/2023 21:04

Try the solicitor's secretary for an update. Much cheaper!

Tulipvase · 26/06/2023 21:09

I think that is a ridiculous amount of time, assuming it was a straightforward case, which it sounds as if it is.

We did the probate for my dad, took about 6 weeks.

StarbucksSmarterSister · 26/06/2023 22:09

The solicitor instructed to deal with the estate took over a year to apply for probate, then another long period to have the property put on the market where it was purchased by a cash buyer.

Are they paid by the hour?

Seriously, give the lawyer a kick up the proverbial. How on earth did it take a year for Probate? Complain to the senior partner and get your money asap.

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