Licensing applications (business premises)

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The costs of applying for new premises licence or to vary a premises licence can vary depending upon the particular needs of the establishment in question. For that reason, we cannot provide a fixed fee for such work. It will be appreciated that the variety of establishments can differ massively in respect of the type and size of premises, what licensable activities will be taking place, whether it is located in a residential area, whether a large public event, and so on. We set out below a range of potential costs but will be able to tailor them more to your specific inquiry once we understand your requirements:

 

Simple application: £1,500 - £4,000 + VAT and disbursements (based on 5 - 18 hours)

 

Medium complexity: £3,000 - £6,000 + VAT and disbursements (based on 11 – 25 hours )

 

High complexity: £5,000 - £15,000 + VAT and disbursements (based on 18 – 55 hours) – this could include an appeal to the Licensing department with a full hearing.

 

The prices above cover such matters as:

• Taking your instructions;

• Advising you on the promotion of the licensing objectives within your application;

• Advising on the type of plans required;

• Completing and submitting the application to the local authority and all other responsible authorities;

• Making arrangements for the advertising of the application; and

• Dealing with objections from local residents.

 

The disbursements involved may include Counsel’s fees for the more complex cases (particularly if there is an appeal process instigated) and also the various Licensing Department fees will be payable and can be found on your local council website, together with the costs of advertising the license application in the local newspapers.

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Please note the anticipated number of hours, fees and timescales are an estimate based on the facts above. All services are likely to vary and of course, we can give you a more accurate estimate once we have more information about your specific case.

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​Disbursements:

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Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as Licence fees payable to the Council, Court fees, Barrister fees, Expert, or a translator. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process.

Some other examples of disbursements are (but are not limited to) the following:

• Barrister or Counsel fees to obtain a legal opinion and or to represent the hearing usually costs between £500.00  to £1500.00 plus Vat. A quotation can be provided upon request. 

• Interpreters fees are usually £30.00 plus Vat per hour. Where applicable. A quotation can be provided upon request. 

• Independent expert reports i.e. Architects, Planning advisors. Usually, the charges are between £3300.00 to £5000.00 plus Vat. 

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Value Added Tax (VAT):

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Our costs are subject to VAT. Where an expert is registered for VAT purposes their fee would be subject to VAT. VAT amount at present is 20% of the quoted fee.

 

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Who will carry out the work?

 

• Director assisted by Solicitor

• Solicitor/Director assisted by a Trainee Solicitors or a Paralegal

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The cases are handled by Director Majid Malik who enjoys greatly assisting clients. He is also assisted by the Paralegals.

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All work is supervised by a senior Director, who retains ultimate responsibility and conduct of matters

 

Hourly Rates:

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• Senior Director (4+ years) - £220 - £290 plus VAT

• Director or Solicitor (2+ years) - £170 - £240 plus VAT

• Paralegals/Trainee Solicitor - £130 plus VAT