{"id":310,"date":"2018-11-29T11:41:22","date_gmt":"2018-11-29T11:41:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.brianharrislaw.com\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/?page_id=310"},"modified":"2025-02-04T21:11:41","modified_gmt":"2025-02-04T21:11:41","slug":"level-of-service-costs-and-timescales","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.brianharrislaw.com\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/level-of-service-costs-and-timescales\/","title":{"rendered":"Level of Service, Costs and Timescales"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>.anchorlanding { display: block; position: relative; top: -140px; visibility: hidden; }<\/style>\n<h4>On this page:<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#link_employment\">Employment<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link_debt_recovery\">Debt Recovery<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link_probate\">Probate and Estate Administration<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link_conveyancing\">Conveyancing<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link_immigration\">Immigration (excluding asylum)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link_complaints\">Complaints<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"link_employment\" class=\"anchorlanding\">\u00a0<\/span>EMPLOYMENT<\/h2>\n<h3>Employment Team<\/h3>\n<p>We have many years of collective experience in dealing with Employment related claims. Our team includes Partner\u00a0<a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/immigration-and-non-domiciled-residents-uk\/\">Jeremy Harris<\/a>,\u00a0 Junior Partner <a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/ali-chaudhry\/\">Ali Chaudhry<\/a> and Associate\u00a0<a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/japanese-speaking-lawyers-hiroko-takeuchi-london-international-lawyer\/\">Hiroko Takeuchi<\/a>.\u00a0Regardless of who works on your matter, they will ultimately be supervised by Brian Harris, Senior Partner.<em>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<p>We find that most employee claims are settled along with financial contributions from the employer. This is particularly the case where Settlement Agreements are involved.<\/p>\n<h3>Prices\/Timescales<\/h3>\n<p>We charge on an hourly basis at an average rate of \u00a3475-500 per hour + VAT. \u00a0We are available to discuss your requirements in a short preliminary meeting at no cost should this assist you.<\/p>\n<p>Our\u00a0pricing, including\u00a0bringing and defending claims for unfair or wrongful dismissal:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Simple case: \u00a33,000 to \u00a36,000 (excluding VAT);<\/li>\n<li>Medium complexity case: \u00a36,000 to \u00a324,000 (excluding VAT);<\/li>\n<li>High complexity case: \u00a324,000 to \u00a360,000 (excluding VAT).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Factors that could make a case more complex:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>if it is necessary to make or defend applications to amend claims or to provide information about an existing claim;<\/li>\n<li>defending claims that are brought by litigants in person;<\/li>\n<li>making or defending a costs application;<\/li>\n<li>complex preliminary issues such as whether the client is disabled (if this is not agreed by the parties);<\/li>\n<li>the number of witnesses and documents;<\/li>\n<li>if it is an automatic unfair dismissal claim, e.g. if you are dismissed after blowing the whistle on your employer;<\/li>\n<li>allegations of discrimination which are linked to the dismissal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>There will generally be an additional charge for attending a Tribunal hearing of \u00a32,500 to \u00a34,000 per day (excluding VAT).<\/p>\n<h4>Disbursements<\/h4>\n<p>Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as Court fees and Barrister\u2019s (Counsel\u2019s) fees. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process.<\/p>\n<p>Counsel\u2019s fees are estimated between \u00a33,000 to \u00a38,750 (excluding VAT) per day (depending on experience of the advocate) for attending a Tribunal Hearing (including preparation).<\/p>\n<p>VAT is currently charged at the rate of 20% on all fees and disbursements unless stated otherwise.<\/p>\n<h4>Key stages \/ What is included in the price?<\/h4>\n<p>The fees set out above cover all of the work in relation to the key stages of a claim:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>taking your initial instructions, reviewing the papers and advising you on merits and likely compensation (this is usually revisited throughout the matter and subject to change);<\/li>\n<li>entering into pre-claim conciliation where this is mandatory to explore whether a settlement can be reached;<\/li>\n<li>preparing claim or response;<\/li>\n<li>reviewing and advising on claim or response from other party;<\/li>\n<li>exploring settlement and negotiating settlement throughout the process;<\/li>\n<li>preparing for and considering a schedule of loss;<\/li>\n<li>preparing for (and attending) a Preliminary Hearing;<\/li>\n<li>exchanging documents with the other party and agreeing a bundle of documents;<\/li>\n<li>taking witness statements, drafting statements and agreeing their content with witnesses;<\/li>\n<li>preparing bundle of documents;<\/li>\n<li>reviewing and advising on the other party\u2019s witness statements;<\/li>\n<li>agreeing a list of issues, a chronology and\/or cast list;<\/li>\n<li>preparation and attendance at Final Hearing, including instructions to Counsel.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The stages set out above are an indication and if some of the stages above are not required, the fee may be reduced. You may wish to handle the claim yourself and only have our advice in relation to some of the stages. This can also be arranged on your individual needs.<\/p>\n<h4>What is not included in the price?<\/h4>\n<p>The following areas are not normally included in the price, but can be discussed with you on a case by case basis:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>appeals;<\/li>\n<li>disbursements (see above).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>How long will my matter take?<\/h4>\n<p>The time that it takes from taking your initial instructions to the final resolution of your matter depends largely on the stage at which your case is resolved. If your claim proceeds to a Final Hearing, your case is likely to take up to a year. This is just an estimate and we will of course be able to give you a more accurate timescale once we have more information and as the matter progresses.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"link_debt_recovery\" class=\"anchorlanding\">\u00a0<\/span>DEBT RECOVERY (up to the value of \u00a3100,000)<\/h2>\n<h3>Debt Recovery Team<\/h3>\n<p>We have many years of collective experience in dealing with Debt Recovery related claims. Our team includes Partner\u00a0<a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/immigration-and-non-domiciled-residents-uk\/\">Jeremy Harris<\/a> and\u00a0Junior Partner <a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/ali-chaudhry\/\">Ali Chaudhry<\/a>.\u00a0Regardless of who works on your matter, they will ultimately be supervised by Brian Harris, Senior Partner.\u00a0We advise in both disputed and undisputed Debt Recovery matters. The team has particular expertise in negotiating Debt Recovery matters for both business to business debts and debts involving individuals valued between \u00a310,000 and in excess of \u00a3100,000. Matters are resolved through negotiation, use of the Courts where necessary and by the use of alternative dispute resolution such as mediation.<\/p>\n<p>We find that most Debt Recovery claims are settled along with a financial contribution from the opponent party.<\/p>\n<h3>Prices\/Timescales<\/h3>\n<p>We charge on an hourly basis at an average rate of \u00a3475-500 per hour + VAT. \u00a0We are available to discuss your requirements in a short preliminary meeting at no cost should this assist you.<\/p>\n<p>Our\u00a0pricing, including\u00a0for bringing and defending Debt Recovery claims:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Simple case: \u00a33,000 to \u00a36,000 (excluding VAT);<\/li>\n<li>Medium complexity case: \u00a36,000 to \u00a350,000 (excluding VAT);<\/li>\n<li>High complexity case: \u00a350,000 to \u00a3100,000 (excluding VAT).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Factors that could make a case more complex:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>if it is necessary to make or defend applications to amend claims or to provide information about an existing claim;<\/li>\n<li>defending claims that are brought by litigants in person;<\/li>\n<li>making or defending a costs application;<\/li>\n<li>complex preliminary issues such as whether the client is disabled (if this is not agreed by the parties);<\/li>\n<li>the number of witnesses and documents;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>Disbursements<\/h4>\n<p>Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as Court fees and Barrister\u2019s (Counsel\u2019s) fees. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process.<\/p>\n<p>Court fees to issue (commence) a claim through the Courts are typically 5% of the value of the claim (for claims valued at \u00a310,000 to \u00a3200,000) VAT does not apply to Court fees. There may be other Court fees depending upon how the matter progresses.<\/p>\n<p>Counsel\u2019s fees are estimated between \u00a34,500 to \u00a37,500 (excluding VAT) per day (depending on experience of the advocate) for attending a Court Hearing (including preparation).<\/p>\n<p>VAT is currently charged at the rate of 20% on all fees and disbursements unless stated otherwise.<\/p>\n<h4>Key stages \/ What is included in the price?<\/h4>\n<p>The fees set out above cover the work in relation to the key stages of a claim:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>taking your initial instructions, reviewing the papers and advising you on merits and likely value of your claim;<\/li>\n<li>entering into pre-action communications with the opponent party, including the drafting of pre-action compliant correspondence;<\/li>\n<li>preparing claim or response;<\/li>\n<li>reviewing and advising on claim or response from opponent party;<\/li>\n<li>exploring settlement and negotiating settlement throughout the process;<\/li>\n<li>preparing for and considering a schedule of loss and claim value;<\/li>\n<li>preparing for (and attending) Court Hearings;<\/li>\n<li>exchanging documents with the opponent party;<\/li>\n<li>taking witness statements, drafting statements and agreeing their content with witnesses;<\/li>\n<li>reviewing and advising on the opponent party\u2019s witness statements;<\/li>\n<li>preparing bundle of documents;<\/li>\n<li>preparation and attendance at Final Hearing (Trial), including instructions to Counsel;<\/li>\n<li>advice regarding enforcement action where required including insolvency, statutory demands, bankruptcy and winding up petition.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The stages set out above are an indication and if some of the stages above are not required, the fee may be reduced. You may wish to handle the claim yourself and only have our advice in relation to some of the stages. This can also be arranged on your individual needs.<\/p>\n<h4>What is not included in the price?<\/h4>\n<p>The following areas are not normally included in the price, but can be discussed with you on a case by case basis:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>appeals;<\/li>\n<li>disbursements (see above).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>How long will my matter take?<\/h4>\n<p>The time that it takes from taking your initial instructions to the final resolution of your matter depends largely on the stage at which your case is resolved. If your claim proceeds to a Trial, your case is likely to take at least a year. This is just an estimate and we will of course be able to give you a more accurate timescale once we have more information and as the matter progresses.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"link_probate\" class=\"anchorlanding\">\u00a0<\/span>PROBATE and ESTATE ADMINISTRATION<\/h2>\n<h3>Probate and Estate Administration Team<\/h3>\n<p>Our team has many years of collective experience in delivering high quality work in all matters relating to Wills and estate administration. The team has particular expertise in high value estates often with an international aspect. We are experienced in preparing inheritance tax documents for HM Revenue &amp; Customs and claiming available exemptions and reliefs by submitting tax returns on behalf of executors. This forms part of our general costs. We are here to assist representatives of those estates where there is no valid Will.<\/p>\n<p>We have a team involving\u00a0<a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/international-lawyers-london\/\">Brian Harris<\/a>\u00a0who works with our Associate\u00a0<a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/anti-money-laundering-aml-lawyer-festus-merotohun-london\/\">Festus Merotohun<\/a> and our Consultant\u00a0<a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/high-net-worth-individuals-legal-advice-london-w1\/\">Caroline Grace<\/a>\u00a0on client matters. \u00a0Regardless of who works on your matter, they will ultimately be supervised by Brian Harris, Senior Partner.<em>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<h3>Prices\/Timescale<\/h3>\n<h4>Applying for the Grant, collecting and distributing the assets<\/h4>\n<p>We charge on an hourly basis at an average rate of \u00a3475-500 per hour + VAT. \u00a0We are available to discuss your requirements in a short preliminary meeting at no cost should this assist you.<\/p>\n<p>Costs can usually be estimated by us once we are aware of the individual circumstances of the estate. Where inheritance tax exemptions and reliefs are identified then such application may involve further time.<\/p>\n<p>We will handle the full process for you.<\/p>\n<h4>Simple estate<\/h4>\n<p>This estimate is for what may be described as a simple estate where:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>There is a valid Will;<\/li>\n<li>There is no more than one property;<\/li>\n<li>There are a couple of bank or building society accounts;<\/li>\n<li>There are no other intangible assets;<\/li>\n<li>There is a sole beneficiary (who may also be the executor) or a limited number of beneficiaries;<\/li>\n<li>There is no inheritance tax payable and the executors do not need to submit a full account to HMRC;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>From experience this is likely to take in the region of 12 hours. Hence, the cost would be \u00a35,700-6,000 + VAT.<\/p>\n<h4>Complicated estate<\/h4>\n<p>This estimate is for a particularly complicated estate where, for example:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>there are multiple executors\/beneficiaries;<\/li>\n<li>there is a at least one property;<\/li>\n<li>a business;<\/li>\n<li>life assurance or pensions in trust;<\/li>\n<li>multiple bank accounts\/investments;<\/li>\n<li>lifetime gifts have been made;<\/li>\n<li>inheritance tax exemptions and reliefs are identified;<\/li>\n<li>an international element;<\/li>\n<li>there is, perhaps, no Will.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>From experience this is likely to take in the region of 30 hours. Hence, the cost would be \u00a315,000 + VAT.<\/p>\n<p>The time involved and hence the cost in dealing with those estates which include only some of the elements referred to above will fall within the range of the estimates given above.<\/p>\n<p>The above lists are not exhaustive and there are numerous other potentially complicating factors which can affect the time involved. However, you will be advised during the process about these and the likely time and cost involved.<\/p>\n<h4>Disbursements\u00a0(which are liable to change) are in addition<\/h4>\n<p>Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as Court fees. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process. Likely disbursements include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Probate application fee, \u00a3300 (VAT is not applicable) + copies (\u00a31.50) (VAT is not applicable). There is no fee if the estate is \u00a35,000 or less;<\/li>\n<li>\u00a37 (VAT is not applicable) Swearing of the oath (per executor);<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>and, potentially, the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Bankruptcy-only Land Charges Department searches (\u00a32 per beneficiary) (VAT is not applicable);<\/li>\n<li>\u00a384.60 (excluding VAT) Post in The Gazette \u2013 Protects against unexpected claims from unknown creditors;<\/li>\n<li>Listing in a Local Newspaper \u2013 cost dependent upon the publication \u2013 This also helps to protect against unexpected claims.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>VAT is currently charged at the rate of 20% on all fees and disbursements unless stated otherwise.<\/p>\n<h4>Key stages \/ What is included in the price?<\/h4>\n<p>The fees set out above cover the work in relation to the key stages of dealing with an estate:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Taking your initial instructions, reviewing papers and advising you;<\/li>\n<li>Identifying the legally appointed executors or administrators and beneficiaries;<\/li>\n<li>Accurately identifying the type of Probate application you will require;<\/li>\n<li>Obtain the relevant documents required to make the application;<\/li>\n<li>Complete the Probate Application and the relevant HMRC forms;<\/li>\n<li>Drafting a legal oath for you to swear;<\/li>\n<li>Making the Application to the Probate Court on your behalf;<\/li>\n<li>Obtaining the Probate and securely sending two copies to you;<\/li>\n<li>Collecting and distributing all assets in the estate.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The stages set out above are an indication and if some of the stages above are not required, the fee may be reduced.<\/p>\n<h4>Potential additional costs \/ What is not included in the price<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>If there is no Will, there are likely to be additional costs that could range significantly depending on the estate and how it is to be dealt with. We can give you a more accurate estimate once we have more information.<\/li>\n<li>Dealing with the sale or transfer of any property in the estate is not included.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>How long will this take?<\/h3>\n<p>On average, from the point we have instructions to completing the administration are dealt with within 6-12 months depending upon the complexity. This involves submitting documents to HMRC (unless it is exempt), applying and obtaining the grant of probate\/letters of administration and then collecting assets, clearing liabilities and paying beneficiaries. Collection and distribution are normally within weeks rather than months.<br \/>\n<span id=\"link_conveyancing\" class=\"anchorlanding\"><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>CONVEYANCING<\/h2>\n<h3>Conveyancing Team<\/h3>\n<p>Our team has many years of collective experience in delivering high quality work in all matters relating to residential conveyancing. We have a team involving\u00a0<a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/international-lawyers-london\/\">Brian Harris<\/a> who works with our Associate <a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/anti-money-laundering-aml-lawyer-festus-merotohun-london\/\">Festus Merotohun<\/a> and our Consultants\u00a0<a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/overseas-clients-london-solicitors-w1\/\">Patrick McCloy<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/high-net-worth-individuals-legal-advice-london-w1\/\">Caroline Grace<\/a>\u00a0on client matters. Regardless of who works on your matter, they will ultimately be supervised by Brian Harris, Senior Partner.<em>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<h3>Prices\/Timescales<\/h3>\n<h4>Purchase of a residential property (usually a house)<\/h4>\n<p>Our fees cover all of the work\u00a0required to complete the purchase (whether it be to live in or for investment), including dealing with registration at the Land Registry and dealing with the payment of Stamp Duty Land Tax (Stamp Duty) if the property is in England, or Land Transaction Tax (Land Tax) if the property you wish to buy is in Wales. It, also, includes submission on your behalf of the Stamp Duty or Land Tax Returns to HM Revenue &amp; Customs.<\/p>\n<h4>Cost and disbursements for freehold purchase (usually a house)<\/h4>\n<p>We charge at an average rate of \u00a3475.00 per hour + VAT.<\/p>\n<p>From our experience we estimate the matter will take in the region of 8 hours which would mean a Legal cost of \u00a33,800.00 + VAT.\u00a0\u00a0 Where a mortgage is required there is likely to be additional time involved but please contact regarding this.<\/p>\n<p>Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process. These include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Search fees on average of between \u00a3200 and \u00a3500 (VAT is not applicable);<\/li>\n<li>HM Land Registry fees of in the range of \u00a325 and \u00a3460 depending up on the value of the property (VAT is not applicable);<\/li>\n<li>Electronic money transfer fee up to \u00a330 + VAT (depending upon CHAPS or Faster Payment).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Other potential disbursements include insurance cover for a defect in the legal title or other regulatory requirements (often building regulations or planning permission). One off indemnity insurance premiums may be payable by you in such circumstances (although more likely the seller will pay for this).<\/p>\n<h4>Cost and disbursements for leasehold purchase (usually a flat)<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Search fees on average of between \u00a3200 and \u00a3500 (VAT is not applicable).<\/li>\n<li>HM Land Registry fees of in the range of \u00a325 and \u00a3460 depending up on the value of the property (VAT is not applicable).<\/li>\n<li>Electronic money transfer fee up to \u00a330 + VAT (depending upon CHAPS or Faster).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>There are a number of other potential disbursements\/expenses:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Notice of Transfer fee \u2013 This may be required in the lease. Often the fee is between \u00a350 and \u00a3100 + VAT payable to the Landlord;<\/li>\n<li>Notice of Mortgage fee (if the property is to be mortgaged) \u2013 This may be required in the lease. Often the fee is between \u00a350 and \u00a3100 + VAT payable to the Landlord;<\/li>\n<li>Deed of Covenant fee \u2013 This may be required in the lease. Often the fee is between \u00a3100 and \u00a3200 + VAT. This fee is payable to the Landlord and\/or Management Company;<\/li>\n<li>Certificate of Compliance fee \u2013 Less likely but to be confirmed upon receipt of the lease, as can range between \u00a350 and \u00a3100 + VAT.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You should also be aware that ground rent and service charge are likely to apply throughout your ownership of the property. We will confirm the ground rent and the anticipated service charge as soon as this we receive this information.<\/p>\n<p>VAT is currently charged at the rate of 20% on all fees and disbursements unless stated otherwise.<\/p>\n<h4>Stamp Duty or Land Tax (on both freehold and leasehold purchase)<\/h4>\n<p>This depends on the purchase price of your property. You can calculate the amount you will need to pay by using\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.tax.service.gov.uk\/calculate-stamp-duty-land-tax\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">HMRC\u2019s website<\/a>\u00a0or if the property is located in Wales\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.wales\/land-transaction-tax-calculator\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">by using the Welsh Revenue Authority\u2019s website here.<\/a><\/p>\n<h3>How long will my purchase take?<\/h3>\n<p>How long it will take from your offer being accepted until completion will depend on a number of factors. Even the most straightforward transaction will generally take several weeks. It can be quicker or slower, depending on the number of parties in the chain and whether borrowing is required by parties within the chain. Often delays are caused by outstanding mortgage offers. Also, where a Landlord needs to be involved because it is leasehold (flat) purchase, this can lead to delay.<\/p>\n<h3>Key stages of the process \/ What is included in the price? (for purchase of freehold or leasehold property)<\/h3>\n<p>This is a simplistic view and can differ according to the circumstances of the transaction:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Take your instructions and give you initial advice;<\/li>\n<li>Check finances are in place to fund purchase;<\/li>\n<li>Receive and advise on contract documents;<\/li>\n<li>Carry out pre-contract searches;<\/li>\n<li>Obtain further planning documentation if required;<\/li>\n<li>Make any necessary enquiries of seller\u2019s solicitor and\/or obtain further documentation;<\/li>\n<li>Provide a report based upon documents and information received;<\/li>\n<li>Go through conditions of mortgage offer with you (if applicable);<\/li>\n<li>Obtain your signature to the sale contract;<\/li>\n<li>Agree completion date (date from which you own the property);<\/li>\n<li>Exchange contracts and notify you that this has happened;<\/li>\n<li>Arrange for all monies required from you (and your lender, if applicable) to be sent to us;<\/li>\n<li>Complete purchase;<\/li>\n<li>Deal with submission of Stamp Duty Land Tax Return to HMRC and make payment on your behalf;<\/li>\n<li>Deal with application for registration at Land Registry and report to you when completed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>What is not included in the price?<\/h4>\n<p>The following areas are not normally included in the price, but can be discussed with you on a case by case basis:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>a non-standard \/ complex transaction;<\/li>\n<li>disbursements (see above).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Sale of a residential property (usually a house)<\/h3>\n<p>Our fees cover all of the work\u00a0required to complete the sale.<\/p>\n<h3>Fee and disbursements for freehold sale (usually a house)<\/h3>\n<p>We charge at an average rate of \u00a3475.00 to \u00a3500.00 per hour + VAT.<\/p>\n<p>From our experience we estimate the matter will take in the region of 5 hours which would mean a Legal cost of \u00a32,500.00 + VAT.\u00a0\u00a0 Where a mortgage is required there is likely to be additional time involved but please contact us regarding this.<\/p>\n<p>Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process. These include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>HM Land Registry fees of in the region of \u00a320 (VAT is not applicable);<\/li>\n<li>Electronic money transfer fee up to \u00a330 + VAT (depending upon CHAPS or Faster).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Other potential disbursements include insurance cover for a defect in the legal title or other regulatory requirements (often building regulations or planning permission). One off indemnity insurance premiums may be payable by you in such circumstances. These can be in the region of \u00a320 to \u00a3400 (plus Insurance Premium Tax).<\/p>\n<h3>Fees and disbursements for leasehold sale (usually a flat)<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>HM Land Registry fees of in the region of \u00a320 (VAT is not applicable).<\/li>\n<li>Electronic money transfer fee up to \u00a330 + VAT (depending upon CHAPS or Faster).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>There are a number of other potential disbursements\/expenses:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Landlord Replies to Enquiries \u2013 this is a set form which a buyer will expect a seller to obtain from the Landlord or its agents. The fee is often between \u00a3250 and \u00a3500 + VAT;<\/li>\n<li>Landlord consent to assign fee \u2013 This may be required in the lease and the fee will be for the Landlord\u2019s solicitors\u2019 costs. The fee is often between \u00a3500 and \u00a31,000 + VAT.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>How long will my sale take?<\/h3>\n<p>How long it will take from accepting an offer until completion will depend on a number of factors. Even the most straightforward transaction will generally take several weeks. It can be quicker or slower, depending on the number of parties in the chain and whether borrowing is required by parties within the chain. Often delays are caused by outstanding mortgage offers. Also, where a Landlord needs to be involved because it is leasehold (flat) sale, this can lead to delay.<\/p>\n<h3>Key stages of the process \/ What is included in the price? (for sale of freehold or leasehold property)<\/h3>\n<p>This is a simplistic view and can differ according to the circumstances of the transaction:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Take your instructions and give you initial advice;<\/li>\n<li>Prepare title documents, draft contract of sale;<\/li>\n<li>Assist you in preparing the necessary property information documents required by a buyer;<\/li>\n<li>Obtain copies of regulatory and other documentation (planning\/building control consents, service agreements, guarantee etc.) if required;<\/li>\n<li>With your assistance reply to enquiries from the buyer and\/or obtain further documentation.\u00a0\u00a0 Deal with any indemnity insurance requests;<\/li>\n<li>On a leasehold sale deal directly with the Landlord, Management Company or their agents and\/or their solicitors. Obtain the necessary replies to standard Landlord enquiries and deal with any other legal requirements in the lease;<\/li>\n<li>Obtain your signature to the sale contract;<\/li>\n<li>Agree completion date (date from which you will no longer own the property);<\/li>\n<li>Obtain your signature to completion documents including Transfer;<\/li>\n<li>Exchange contracts and notify you that this has happened;<\/li>\n<li>Obtain a figure from your lender to repay your mortgage (if applicable). Provide you with a completion statement;<\/li>\n<li>Complete sale and make necessary payment to you and your lender (if applicable);<\/li>\n<li>Provide the buyer\u2019s solicitors with required documentation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"link_immigration\" class=\"anchorlanding\">\u00a0<\/span>IMMIGRATION (excluding asylum)<\/h2>\n<h3>Immigration Team<\/h3>\n<p>Our consultant,\u00a0<a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/lawyers-commercial-london\/\">Graeme Kirk<\/a>\u00a0and his team, have many years of experience in this field.\u00a0\u00a0Regardless of who works on your matter, they will ultimately be supervised by Brian Harris, Senior Partner.\u00a0 This area of law is complex and changes frequently and as such our service is tailored to your own unique set of circumstances.<\/p>\n<h3>Prices\/Timescales<\/h3>\n<p>Our\u00a0pricing \/ total costs for dealing with immigration matters:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Simple case: \u00a32,500 to \u00a35,000 (excluding VAT);<\/li>\n<li>Medium complexity case: \u00a35,000 to \u00a320,000 (excluding VAT);<\/li>\n<li>High complexity case: \u00a320,000 to \u00a350,000 (excluding VAT).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Factors that could make a case more complex:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The amount of supporting evidence that we need to consider;<\/li>\n<li>Which language(s) you speak;<\/li>\n<li>Whether you are applying with other dependants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>We charge on an hourly basis at an average rate of \u00a3500 per hour + VAT. The\u00a0price range outlined\u00a0below covers\u00a0 individuals. If you are a Company or business seeking UK Immigration advice, please contact Graeme.<\/p>\n<p>A fee estimate will be provided to you once we have undertaken an initial consultation to understand the scope of work involved. We will inform you if and when it becomes apparent that the final charge will be in excess of the figure given to you.<\/p>\n<table width=\"621\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\"><strong>Application<\/strong><\/td>\n<td width=\"272\"><strong>Fees (excl. VAT)<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Initial Consultation Fees<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Graeme Kirk \u00a3500 per hour<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>British Citizenship application<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a31250.00 \u2013 \u00a32,000.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Spouse\/Partner application<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a31,750.00 \u2013 \u00a34,000.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Skilled Worker<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a31,750.00 to \u00a32,500.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Tier 1 (Entrepreneur)<\/p>\n<p>Extension and ILR Applications<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a35,000.00 to \u00a310,000.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Tier 1 (Investor)<\/p>\n<p>Extension applications, ILR* Applications<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a35,000.00 to \u00a310,000.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Global Talent Visa<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a35,000.00 to \u00a36,000.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Innovator<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a35,000.00 to \u00a37,500.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Immigration Appeal<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a33,000.00 to \u00a310,000.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">EU residency documentation<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a3950.00 to \u00a33,000.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Indefinite Leave to Remain Applications<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a31,500.00 to \u00a33,000.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Sponsorship of family member from abroad<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a32,000.00 to \u00a34,000.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Students<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a31,750.00 to \u00a34,000.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Sponsor Licence Applications<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a32,750.00 to \u00a35,000.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Visit Visa Applications<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a31,000.00 to \u00a33,000.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">UK Ancestry Applications<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a32,000.00 to \u00a33,500.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Additional Dependents<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a3500.00 to \u00a3850.00 per dependent<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"349\">Leave to Remain applications<\/td>\n<td width=\"272\">Between \u00a31,500.00 to \u00a35,000.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><em>*\u00a0 ILR = Indefinite Leave to Remain<\/em><\/p>\n<h3>Disbursements<\/h3>\n<p>Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as visa fees. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Interpreters &#8211; Fees estimated between \u00a330 to \u00a3200 per hour plus VAT. These will depend upon the service required and quotes can be obtained prior to the instruction of an interpreter<\/li>\n<li>Immigration Health Surcharge payments &#8211; Fees estimated at \u00a31,035 (VAT not applicable) per year for visa and immigration applications. Other fees may apply for example for students or those under 18 years old.<\/li>\n<li>Tuberculosis testing &#8211; Fees estimated between \u00a375 to \u00a3200 (VAT not applicable)<\/li>\n<li>Life in the UK test charges &#8211; Fees estimated at \u00a350 (VAT not applicable)<\/li>\n<li>English Language test charges &#8211; Fees estimated between \u00a3150 to \u00a3250 (VAT not applicable)<\/li>\n<li>Biometric Enrolment Fee &#8211; Fees estimated at \u00a319.20 (VAT not applicable)<\/li>\n<li>Immigration Skills Charge \u2013 Fee is dependent upon factors including the size of the organisation (VAT not applicable)<\/li>\n<li>CoS Fee &#8211; Fees estimated at \u00a3239 (VAT not applicable)<\/li>\n<li>Independent expert reports e.g. medical experts. These are not required in many cases: we will let you know as soon as possible if we consider an expert report is necessary. Fees estimated between \u00a3450 to \u00a33,000 plus VAT<\/li>\n<li>If there is an interview and we do attend with you, there will be additional disbursements in respect of our mileage\/travel expenses<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>VAT is currently charged at the rate of 20% on all fees and disbursements unless stated otherwise.<\/p>\n<h3>Key stages \/ What is included in the price?<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Client meetings.<\/li>\n<li>The provision of document lists, and review of supporting documents.<\/li>\n<li>The preparation of the application to the UKVI.<\/li>\n<li>All correspondence with client and third parties (letter, email, telephone, Skype).<\/li>\n<li>Assistance with responding to queries raised by the Home Office once submitted.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>What factors could increase the price?<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>An increase in complications with the application in light of new information provided by the client.<\/li>\n<li>A change of instruction or change in circumstances.<\/li>\n<li>Difficulty in receiving prompt responses for requests of documentation from clients.<\/li>\n<li>Liaising with third parties on a client\u2019s behalf.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>What\u2019s not included in the price?<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Home Office Application Fee, Immigration Health Surcharge, Home Office Appeal fees, and any additional Government fees. The most up to date information can be found here\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/visa-regulations-revised-table\/8-october-2018\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/visa-regulations-revised-table\/8-october-2018<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Courier fees, postal delivery fees, translation fees, photocopying.<\/li>\n<li>The cost for representation at Home Office Appointments.<\/li>\n<li>Specialist report fees (e.g. psychiatry, child welfare etc).<\/li>\n<li>The cost to retrieve title deeds to property.<\/li>\n<li>The cost of instructing an Immigration Barrister to represent you at appeal or Judicial Review hearing or for advice in connection with Appeals on Applications for Judicial Review.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Typical timescales<\/h3>\n<p>In our experience, cases can take anywhere between 4 days and 18 months to be processed depending on the type of application, complexity of cases and the timescales set by the Home Office. As a result of this, we will endeavour to provide you with a timescale for completing your application during the initial consultation stage.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"link_complaints\" class=\"anchorlanding\">\u00a0<\/span>COMPLAINTS<\/h2>\n<p>Please see our <a href=\"\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Brian-Harris-and-Co-General-Terms-Conditions-01-04-2023.pdf\">General Terms of Business<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>If at any time you would like to discuss how the Services can be improved or if you have a complaint about them, you are invited to telephone or write to the Supervising Partner as identified in the Engagement Letter.\u00a0 If your complaint is not resolved, you should request the identity of the member of the firm who is designated as the Client Care Partner whom you should telephone or write to with details of the complaint.\u00a0 He or she will investigate it promptly and respond to the complaint.<\/p>\n<p>You also have a right to send a complaint to the Legal Ombudsman if we are unable to resolve your complaint ourselves. They will look at your complaint independently and it will not affect how we handle your case.<\/p>\n<p>Before accepting a complaint for investigation, the Legal Ombudsman will check that you have tried to resolve your complaint with us first. If you have, then you must take your complaint to the Legal Ombudsman:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Within six months of receiving our final response to your complaint<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>and<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>No more than one year from the date of the act or omission being complained about; or<\/li>\n<li>No more than one year from the date when you should reasonably have known that there was cause for complaint.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For more information\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalombudsman.org.uk\/contact-us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact the Legal Ombudsman<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The Solicitors Regulation Authority can help if you are concerned about our behaviour. This could be for things like dishonesty, taking or losing your money or treating you unfairly because of your age, a disability or other characteristic.<\/p>\n<p>Visit their website to see how you can raise your concerns with the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sra.org.uk\/consumers\/problems\/report-solicitor\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Solicitors Regulation Authority<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>On this page: Employment Debt Recovery Probate and Estate Administration Conveyancing Immigration (excluding asylum) Complaints &nbsp; \u00a0EMPLOYMENT Employment Team We have many years of collective experience in dealing with Employment related claims. Our team includes Partner\u00a0Jeremy Harris,\u00a0 Junior Partner Ali Chaudhry and Associate\u00a0Hiroko Takeuchi.\u00a0Regardless of who works on your matter, they will ultimately be supervised&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.brianharrislaw.com\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/level-of-service-costs-and-timescales\/\" class=\"excerpt-read-more\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-310","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.brianharrislaw.com\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/310","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.brianharrislaw.com\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.brianharrislaw.com\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.brianharrislaw.com\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.brianharrislaw.com\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=310"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/www.brianharrislaw.com\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/310\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":468,"href":"https:\/\/www.brianharrislaw.com\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/310\/revisions\/468"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.brianharrislaw.com\/international-lawyers-solicitors-london-uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=310"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}