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Written question asked by Cameron Thomas (Independent (affiliation)) on Tuesday, 1 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 3 September 2026. It was answered by Sarah Sackman (Labour) on Wednesday, 9 September 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Justice.

Administration of Estates

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what steps he is taking to lower the legal fees involved in acquiring a Deed of Variation.

Answer

A deed of variation allows beneficiaries to a deceased persons estate to alter what they are entitled to receive under the terms of a will, or under the rules of intestacy if there is no valid will. It must be agreed and signed by all affected beneficiaries.

Beneficiaries may enter into such agreements for a number of reasons such as, redirecting assets to those who are more vulnerable or in greater need, gifting additional assets to charity or for tax management purposes. A deed of variation will not be relevant for the vast majority of estates.

It is for beneficiaries to decide a deed of variation is appropriate for the administration of the estate in question, and whether they wish to obtain support from a professional in executing it. The cost of legal support in executing a deed of variation is a matter for the parties to agree. The Government has no plans to take any action on this issue.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
26453
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Administration of estates Fees and charges Wills
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk