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Video answers supplement the written Gardner Champion FAQs and guides. The written answer remains the canonical source.
Fees & Payments
Gardner Champion explains likely costs at the outset and offers fixed-fee options where they are available, including conveyancing and selected private client work.
Open parent faq answerLitigation costs depend on the complexity and duration of your case. We provide detailed cost estimates at the outset and keep you informed of any significant changes. Costs typically include our fees, court fees, expert witness fees, and other disbursements. We also discuss funding options including conditional fee agreements (no-win-no-fee) where appropriate.
Open parent faq answerProperty purchase costs include solicitor's fees, searches, Land Registry fees, stamp duty land tax, survey costs, and mortgage arrangement fees. For leasehold properties, additional costs may include management fees and ground rent. We provide transparent fee estimates upfront and explain all costs involved in your transaction.
Open parent faq answerWhile you can write your own will, this is often risky and can lead to expensive problems later. DIY wills frequently contain errors, ambiguities, or fail to comply with legal requirements, potentially making them invalid. Complex family situations, significant assets, business interests, or tax planning needs require professional expertise. The cost of professional will drafting is minimal compared to the potential costs of rectifying problems with a defective will.
Open parent faq answerConveyancing fees vary by property value and complexity but typically range from £800-£1,500 (exclusive of VAT) plus disbursements. Fees cover legal work, contract review, searches, enquiries, and completion. Disbursements include search fees, Land Registry charges, and stamp duty. We provide transparent fixed-fee quotes with no hidden costs. All our legal fees exclude VAT.
Open parent faq answerConveyancing & Property
Freehold means you own the property and the land it stands on outright. Leasehold means you own the property for a fixed period (the lease term) but not the land. Leasehold properties require ground rent and service charges, and you may need landlord consent for certain alterations. We can explain the implications of each tenure type and help you understand your rights and obligations.
Open parent faq answerAverage residential transactions take 8-12 weeks from instruction to completion, though this varies based on chain length, property type, and any complications discovered. We provide realistic timelines and regular updates, working efficiently to meet your target completion date while ensuring thorough legal protection.
Open parent faq answerWills, Trusts & Probate
A will ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and can help minimize inheritance tax. Without a will, your estate will be distributed according to intestacy rules, which may not reflect your wishes. A will also allows you to appoint guardians for minor children and executors to manage your estate.
Open parent faq answerCriminal & Regulatory
Gardner Champion Solicitors Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, SRA number 558945.
Open parent faq answerGetting Started
You can contact the firm by phone, email or online enquiry. For conveyancing, the online quote page lets you start with a guided quote before the team confirms the next steps.
Open parent faq answer