Probe on probate

HAvING dealt with probate matters for many of my 50 years as a solicitor, I cannot believe that the Probate Registries suddenly cost more to run (Mail).

They are the most efficient, businesslike and helpful of all parts of the judicial system.

The Government’s decision to increase probate fees from a flat rate of £215, or £155 if applied through a solicitor, to a maximum of £6,000, is not defendable.

Obtaining probate does not involve attendance at court giving evidence with an entourage of solicitors and barristers — it is a paper application. An oath is not even required, just a ‘statement of truth’, for what that is worth. Applications to the Court of Protection and for registration of lasting power of attorney are dealt with in the same way. The difference is the fees have been reduced because a surplus had built up.

RALPH J. CROSS, Hereford.