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Business Details
22 Years
experience
Expert Legal Services in Ottery St Mary
Christine Ashby was established in 2004 with a commitment to delivering professional legal services while maintaining a friendly and approachable manner. Specialising in wills, probate, trusts, inheritance tax planning, lasting powers of attorney, and advice for elderly clients, we serve individuals in Ottery St Mary and across East Devon. With over 20 years of experience in these specific legal areas, Christine Ashby has built a reputation for providing efficient, tailored solutions that address clients' unique circumstances. As an Accredited Lifetime Lawyer, Christine demonstrates exceptional expertise in supporting vulnerable and older clients, combining legal knowledge with compassionate service. Our practice prioritises transparency, offering fixed-price options for straightforward matters and clear cost estimates for complex cases.

We collaborate closely with financial advisers and accountants to ensure comprehensive planning for clients' estates and future needs. The firm's dedication to quality is reflected in its authorisation and regulation by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (no. 406307). Whether assisting with simple wills or multi-million-pound estate administration, we maintain consistent standards of professionalism and client care. Our services extend to home visits for clients unable to attend our office, ensuring accessibility for all. Christine Ashby remains committed to evolving with clients' changing needs while upholding the core values of integrity and expertise that have defined our practice since establishment.
Services
Wills Probate Trusts Tax Planning Power of Attorney Elderly Client Services
Details
  • Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
  • Specialist in wills and probate since 1996 with 25+ years' experience
  • Accredited Lifetime Lawyer for elderly client expertise
  • Transparent pricing with fixed fees and clear estimates
  • Authorised by Solicitors Regulation Authority (no. 406307)
  • Home visits available for clients unable to attend office
Associations and certifications
  • Solicitors Regulation Authority
  • Accredited Lifetime Lawyer
Services
Wills
Christine Ashby provides expert will drafting services tailored to individual circumstances. With over 20 years' experience, we ensure your estate is distributed according to your wishes while minimising inheritance tax liabilities. Our fixed-price options for straightforward wills and transparent hourly rates for complex cases make estate planning accessible. We work closely with financial advisers to create comprehensive solutions that protect your assets and loved ones.
Probate
Our probate services handle estate administration with professional efficiency. From obtaining grants of probate to managing asset distribution, we offer flexible support ranging from specific tasks to full estate management. Hourly rates start at 200 + VAT with estimated costs 4001,000 for simple estates. We provide clear cost breakdowns before work commences and assist with inheritance tax returns for more complex cases.
Tax Planning
Specialist inheritance tax planning helps protect your estate's value. We advise on exemptions and reliefs to reduce liabilities, currently at 40% above 325,000 thresholds. Our services include creating tax-efficient wills and lifetime planning strategies. Christine's expertise ensures clients receive practical solutions tailored to their financial circumstances while maintaining compliance with current legislation.
Power of Attorney
We specialise in creating Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) for property/financial affairs and health/welfare matters. Our services include document preparation, registration with the Office of the Public Guardian, and tailored advice on implementation. Christine's accreditation as a Lifetime Lawyer ensures expert guidance for protecting future decision-making capacity while maintaining client autonomy.
Elderly Client Services
As an Accredited Lifetime Lawyer, Christine provides specialist legal support for elderly and vulnerable clients. Services include court of protection applications, living wills, and residential care fee planning. We offer home visits and collaborate with care professionals to ensure comprehensive support. Our expertise addresses complex needs while maintaining dignity and client-centred decision-making throughout the legal process.
People
Christine Ashby Solicitor
Principal Solicitor
Qualified solicitor since 1996 specialising in wills, probate and elderly client services. Accredited Lifetime Lawyer with 20+ years' experience in East Devon. Regulated by Solicitors Regulation Authority.
Questions
What areas do you cover?
We provide legal services throughout East Devon with office based in Ottery St Mary. Home visits available across our service area.
How are probate costs calculated?
Probate work charged at £200 + VAT hourly rate. Simple estates typically £400–£1,000. Complex cases with inheritance tax start from £2,000 + VAT.
Are you regulated professionals?
Yes, Christine Ashby is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (no. 406307).
Can you help with urgent matters?
While we don't offer emergency services, we prioritise timely responses and can arrange urgent appointments when required.
What payment methods do you accept?
Payment details not specified in text. Please contact us directly for payment method information.
Do you offer home visits?
Yes, we provide home visits for clients unable to attend our office in Ottery St Mary.