Thornton Springer Probate Services Ltd

Historically, only solicitors were able to carry out the reserved activity of probate. Since December 2014, the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has become an approved regulator for probate services enabling firms of Chartered Accountants to apply to become authorised or licenced to deal with non-contentious probate in England & Wales.

Thornton Springer Probate Services Ltd became authorised to provide probate services in July 2015. The firm is run by Debbie Sutton (nee Ankrah) who, not only has a degree in law, but is also a senior tax partner of Thornton Springer Chartered Accountants LLP. Debbie has been a partner for over 15 years and specialises in most aspect of tax including inheritance tax, trusts and estate planning.

Thornton Springer Probate Services Ltd is able to offer a complete service to both new and existing clients from the initial discussions of what is required through to the completion of the appropriate Inheritance tax account for HMRC and the probate application.

We can also deal with the tax reporting of the income paid to the estate and any assets sold during the administration period and complete as necessary any tax returns and estate accounts. Should the will contain a trust, we also have vast experience in the taxation of trusts.

Our company offers this service for a fee which is based mainly on the size of the estate and number of assets. We believe that basing our fees on the amount of work involved is a fairer and more transparent method than that used by many banks and solicitors who base their fees on a percentage of the estate.

For existing clients of the accountancy practice, we already have a good working relationship with you and are familiar with your financial affairs, wishes and preferences.

Even if you are not an existing client, we have considerable knowledge in accounting and taxation matters especially when it comes to preparing the IHT account for HMRC and preparing company valuations. This assists us greatly when it comes to filing the necessary paperwork to enable the grant/letters of administration to be issued.

Whilst Debbie is the sole director and employee, she is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of the services provided. Although no additional staff are currently employed, she actively encourages diversity by ensuring that the services provided are accessible, fair and respectful to everyone. Debbie also seeks to work with other professionals and organisations that share these values, fostering an inclusive approach within the wider profession. Should the company expand in the future, diversity data would be collected and published.

Please contact Debbie Sutton (nee Ankrah) on dja@thorntonspringer.co.uk or 020 8771 8661 for further information.

Legal information

Thornton Springer Probate Services Limited is authorised by the ICAEW to carry out the reserved legal activity of non-contentious probate in England and Wales. The registered address is as above. Registered in England and Wales No. 09708484