I have spent much of the day dealing with undertakers, vicars and solicitors so I am afraid I know nothing about the reaction to the Queen's speech. More on that anon. But I do want to share something that happened today.
I am the Executor to my Godmother's will, so went to see her solicitor this morning to establish what I have to do. At the end of the meeting I asked what the fees were likely to be. She informed me that her hourly rate was £185 and then added that it was her company's policy to charge (in addition to the hourly rate) 1 per cent commission on any cash sum left in the will and half a per cent on the property, but this was of course subject to negotiation.
Once I had picked my jaw up off the floor I told her there would be no negotiation because I woudn't be paying any commission at all. She agreed with no further discussion. I left the meeting with a very sour taste in my mouth, wondering if I should use my normal solicitor. It's quite clear to me that if they don't "earn" the commission they will in all likelihood bump up the hours.
So my question is this: are these commission charges normal practice nowadays and if so, are solicitors trying to have their cake and eat it by charging a very high hourly rate AND a commission fee?
UPDATE Wed 11.45am: Thanks to all those who have commented and offered advice. I have just told the firm that their services are no longer required, and I will do it myself.
