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Anon 13.10.The best way I provide a specific quote is to sit down with the Exor and go through all details of estate. Ringing round and saying "There are three bank account and a house", as most people do, is far from enough info as there is more to administering an estate.

I don't understand the attitude that its unreasonable to have to call someone and, heaven forbid, actually talk to them as a waste of time. That way you can really grasp whether the firm/fee earner are any good.

What the incoming SRA rules overlook is the many variables in an estate. I have picked up an estate with only £33K, no need for probate. BUT - sister co-exors who don't get on, son getting nothing due to lapse of a specific gift, a legatee who's whereabouts are unknown. All this only came to light as I insisted a meeting with one of the Exors initially. I should add I have instruction from both Exors to act. I accept this an extreme example, but more often than not I hear "Oh, its a simple estate" and while it may not be overly complex, it is far more complex than they appreciate. Estate Admins are far more than collecting cash and sharing it out.

The fact is, if you want to be sure you are instructing the right people, shop around,. see (yes, I said see) more than one to get a feel for them...and don't base it on cost alone.

After all, it took me months to get the right builder when all I wanted was some walls knocking down and a kitchen putting in. And there I was thinking it was all so straightforward......and not an internet quote in sight!