The old idea of a family structure being a married couple with 2.4 biological children is fast becoming a thing of the past. The blended family model with parents remarrying and with children from previous relationships is very much the ‘new normal.’ This makes the need for meticulous detail in estate planning and Will writing...
UncategorisedHow to Avoid Will Misunderstandings and Lost Estates?
19th October 2021
If you are one of the 46% of UK adults that have been sensible enough to put a Will in place you have taken the most important step to help secure the financial future of your loved ones. However, we can’t underline enough, the need for a ‘proper’ conversation with your family to talk about...
UncategorisedThe Need to Discuss Your Estate, Wealth, Wills & Wishes with Your Family
19th October 2021
According to research and current figures, £15 billion of assets are lying in the unclaimed accounts of the deceased! This means that our loved ones may never receive cash and savings that could help to financially secure their futures and make a better life for their families. Known in law as ‘Bona Vacantia’ (ownerless goods)...
UncategorisedImproved Probate Application Process
11th October 2021
The move to an online, probate application system hasn’t been easy with well-publicised and inevitable probate application delays. If that wasn’t enough, HM Courts & Tribunal Service (HMCTS) are still the subject of a government consultation where a proposal has been put forward to bring in a new flat rate fee of £273. This marks...
UncategorisedDo I Need a Will or a Trust?
10th October 2021
The terms ‘Will’ and ‘Trust’ are often confused. Whilst many people tend to know that they both have something to do with giving your assets to others, they are very different and serve different purposes. However, that’s not to say that the two are linked and complement each other. A Will First and foremost, everybody...
UncategorisedKeep a Watchful Eye On ‘New Suitors’ for Elderly Family Members
13th September 2021
Inheritance hunters, exploiting older, vulnerable people is on the increase according to charities such as ‘Age UK.’ The issue hasn’t gone unnoticed by Labour MP Fabian Hamilton who is currently lobbying for changes to the law to help combat such exploitation. Inheritance hunters are people who seek out and exploit older people, often with dementia,...
UncategorisedProbate Fees to Rise from 2022
2nd August 2021
A combination of a new electronic processing system and incredibly high demand that has put the probate application service under immense stress has resulted in ‘The Ministry of Justice’ (MOJ) looking to increase ‘Grant for Probate’ fees from £155 to £215. This applies to both probate professionals and individuals. Under the new proposal they are...
UncategorisedCan I Leave my Pension in My Will?
24th June 2021
Generally speaking – pensions are not considered part of your estate and are not subject to Inheritance Tax. However, there are ways that a pension pot can become part of your estate. Furthermore, there are things that can be done to ensure your partner and family benefits from your pension. To ensure your partner, or...
The number of Wills that are challenged, based on fraud or forgery is increasing – although not great in number. However, this trend does underline the need to ensure that Wills are both up to date and that an individual’s wishes, relating to the Will, are made known to close family and friends. However, should...
Should a loved one die abroad, the fact that they are overseas can add to your stress, compounding the tragedy. However, provided you know what is required, the process of dealing with the situation can be relatively straight forward. Furthermore, there will be help at hand, from a variety of avenues, to help with the...