we know that each case you handle is unique

Our experiences have shown us that the basis upon which one case may be charged may not be suitable for another. As a result we offer the flexibility of the following four fee options:

Time Spent

We can offer research on a time spent basis.

An initial budget is agreed prior to starting the research. Offers an easy way to monitor costs incurred by the estate.

Payment is required irrespective of costs, this can help keep costs down if the research required is less complicated.

Beneficiary Contingency

Suitable for cases where either there are known heirs already represented or no known heirs where no authorities have been appointed.

The fee paid is through an agreement with the beneficiaries we trace – a share of their entitlement when the estate is distributed.

No formal instruction is required.

Known heirs are protected from having to pay to find unknown beneficiaries.

If we do not find the beneficiaries, there is no fee to be paid.

Fixed Fee

Fee agreed according to the perceived difficulty of the research required based on the information provided by the client.

Easy to plan and budget the estate costs.

A reporting date can be guaranteed as a larger budget is required.

A personal representative is needed.

No payment required if the research is incomplete at the end of the agreed time frame.

finder’s fee contingency

Instruct us to find missing heirs irrespective of whether or not their place on the family tree is known.

Known heirs are protected from research fees that may not yield results.

This option requires there to be an executor, administrator or trustee.

The fee is paid at the agreed percentage on the share due on all the missing or unknown beneficiaries that we trace.

If we do not find the beneficiaries, there is no fee to be paid.