2530 days ago

If it's true, it's another estate-administration rip-off (Auckland lawyer)

Director / lawyer from Kiwilaw

I know I've said it before, and I repeat: PLEASE CHECK THE FEE BEFORE YOU USE A LAWYER FOR PROBATE or LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION.
I heard this week of an Auckland lawyer who allegedly quoted $5000 for letters of administration.
Possibly that included all the estate administration, not just getting the grant of administration from the High Court. The enquirer had, however, asked about 'just' letters of administration.
The lawyer allegedly told the enquirer that they (the family) legally could not do any of the work themselves once they had letters of administration, and that they had to use a lawyer. If that was actually said (and I emphasise 'if'), it was false.
The letters of administration should not cost more than $1500 even allowing for some language issues. The rest of the estate administration, for the small amount of property involved, should not be more than about $500, perhaps $1000 at the outside to allow for high office rents in Auckland (!).
I have also heard of some excessive figures quoted by South Island lawyers. (As well as a few who charge less than $1000 for probate or letters of administration.)
Please just check beforehand - whether it's for letters of administration (no will) or probate (a will, with at least one executor able and willing to act).

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Poll: Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎁 Holiday Gift Chat!

Do you ever regift?
What’s your take on asking for a receipt if a gift doesn’t fit?

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Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?
  • 79.4% Yes! It's better to regift what I don't need
    79.4% Complete
  • 20.6% No. It's the thought and effort that matters
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310 votes
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Neighbourhood Challenge: Who Can Crack This One? ⛓️‍💥❔

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

What has a head but no brain?

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9 hours ago

Xmas Bake Sale

Wendy from Rangiora

Pop along to our Xmas Bake sale from 10am - 12 noon Tuesday 23rd December at Sequoia Reserve on Oxford Rd.

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