How much does it cost to hire an estate executor?
How much does it cost to hire an estate executor?
Hiring an attorney to file a petition for estate executor is an important legal step to ensure the authority to properly manage and distribute the deceased’s assets. The costs vary primarily depending on the complexity of the case. They can be broken down into two main components: attorney fees and court fees
1. Attorney fees (variable)
This is the most common expense. There is no fixed rate, it depends on the agreement between you and your attorney. It can be divided according to the type of case as follows:
Case 1: No objections (all heirs consent)
This is the most common case, where all heirs at the same level give written consent and no one objects to the appointment of an estate executor.
- General service rates (lump sum): Approximately 15,000 – 30,000 baht
- This price usually includes all services, from consultation, document preparation, filing a petition with the court, and accompanying the petitioner to testify on the hearing date until the court issues an order.
- For less complicated cases with a small amount of assets If you are in the same area as the lawyer, you may be able to find a lawyer who can offer legal services for 10,000 – 15,000 baht.
Case 2: There is an objection (the heir does not consent)
If one of the heirs files a petition objecting to the appointment of an estate administrator, the case becomes a disputed matter, which is more complicated and time-consuming.
- General service rates: Starting at 30,000 – 60,000 baht, or higher.
- Costs will be significantly higher. This is because lawyers have to work harder, such as preparing pleadings, preparing evidence to refute opposing parties, and may have to appear in court multiple times.
2. Court fees and other expenses (relatively fixed rates)
In addition to attorney fees, the petitioner must pay various court fees, which are expenses the lawyer will collect and use to pay the actual costs.
- Court fees (filing a petition): 200 baht
- Newspaper announcement fees (to inform interested parties): approximately 500-1,000 baht
- Delivery of notices to heirs (If any): Calculated at the court’s rate.
- Cost of certification of court order copies: 50 baht per copy.
- Cost of certificate stating finality of case: 50 baht per copy.
Total fees and expenses will be approximately 1,000 – 2,000 baht.
Factors Affecting Attorney’s Fees
- Complexity of the inheritance: e.g., multiple assets, multiple provinces, or significant debts.
- Difficulty in compiling documents: e.g., important heir or decedent documents are lost.
- Lawyer Experience and Reputation: More experienced lawyers or larger law firms may charge higher fees.
- Scope of Work: Clearly agree on the cost of the service, such as only processing until the court orders, or including assistance in transferring assets at the Land Department.