Creating a Will

Why Having a Will is Essential:

A well-drafted will is a cornerstone of responsible estate planning. It ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and provides clear guidance on matters such as guardianship for minor children and charitable bequests. Our solicitors understand the importance of tailoring wills to reflect your unique circumstances, addressing specific concerns and goals.

Tailored Will Drafting:

Our team is committed to crafting wills that accurately reflect your intentions and safeguard your legacy. We work closely with you to understand your financial situation, family dynamics, and any specific wishes you may have regarding your estate. Whether it involves dividing assets, establishing trusts, or addressing tax considerations, we tailor each will to your individual needs.

Probate and Estate Administration

Navigating the Probate Process:

Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person's estate. Our experienced solicitors guide you through each step, ensuring a smooth and efficient probate process. We handle the necessary paperwork, apply for the grant of probate, and manage the distribution of assets in accordance with the will.

Executor Support:

Being named as an executor can be a challenging responsibility. Our team provides comprehensive support to executors, offering guidance on legal obligations, managing estate finances, and ensuring the proper distribution of assets. We aim to alleviate the stress associated with this role, allowing you to fulfil your duties with confidence.

Intestacy Matters:

When someone passes away without a valid will, the rules of intestacy govern the distribution of their estate. Our solicitors are adept at navigating intestacy matters, ensuring that assets are distributed in accordance with the law. We guide you through the process, helping you understand your rights and responsibilities.

Inheritance Tax Planning

Minimizing Tax Liabilities:

Inheritance Tax (IHT) can have a significant impact on the value of your estate. Our team provides strategic advice on minimizing IHT liabilities, utilizing available exemptions and reliefs. Through careful planning, we aim to preserve the maximum value of your estate for your beneficiaries.

Trusts for Tax Efficiency:

Establishing trusts can be a valuable tool in inheritance tax planning. Our solicitors assess your circumstances and recommend trust structures that align with your goals. Whether it's a discretionary trust, life interest trust, or other forms of trusts, we ensure that your estate planning is both tax-efficient and in line with your wishes.

Contesting a Will

Challenging Unfair Dispositions:

Disputes over wills can arise for various reasons, including concerns about the validity of the will or allegations of undue influence. Our solicitors have experience in handling will disputes and can provide legal representation if you are contesting a will or defending against a challenge.

Professional Mediation:

In some cases, mediation can offer a more amicable and cost-effective alternative to resolving will disputes. Our team includes skilled mediators who work towards finding mutually acceptable solutions, preserving family relationships while addressing concerns about the estate.

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA)

Planning for Incapacity:

LPAs are powerful legal documents that designate individuals to make decisions on your behalf in case of mental incapacity. Our solicitors guide you through the creation of LPAs, ensuring that your preferences regarding health, welfare, and financial matters are documented and legally recognized.

Registering and Activating LPAs:

Ensuring that LPAs are properly registered and activated is crucial for their effectiveness. Our team assists you in completing the registration process and provides guidance on when and how LPAs should be activated based on your specific circumstances.