Wills and probate

People understandably have reservations about making a Will, but the process need not turn out to be as upsetting, difficult and costly as you first imagine.

Do I need a Will?

For most people what happens to their property and family when they die is a matter of some importance. If you care about who benefits from your property after your death, you need a Will.

Irrespective of wealth, if you die without having made a Will, the law dictates what happens to your possessions. Under these conditions, your friends, favourite charities and some relatives may receive nothing. In certain circumstances, if you are not married, your partner may not actually be entitled to anything.

Making a will places you in control of what happens to your property. It is possible to vary the amounts going to your relatives and children, you can set conditions, and you decide who manages the process on your behalf.

Is it expensive?

Making a Will is not as expensive as you think. We will be pleased to give you a no obligation estimate of costs.

What is a lasting power of attorney?

A lasting power of attorney is a useful document that allows someone chosen by you to take over some or all of your affairs should you be unable to manage on your own due to physical or mental infirmity. You can decide what they can do on your behalf and more importantly you avoid your assets being frozen until a receiver is appointed by the Court of Protection.

What about my finances?

We can also assist with benefits and pension rights, on savings and investments, on taxation and on ordering your day to day affairs in the way that is best and most convenient to you.

We can ensure that you receive expert and totally independent advice and recommendations covering the whole range of investment and financial planning opportunities.

How often should I change my Will?

We recommend that you review your Will every year to make sure that it is still following your wishes and has not been invalidated through marriage for example. If you move house or experience any other change in circumstances you should consider updating your Will.

Probate

The last thing you want to have to think about when a close friend or family member dies, is sorting out their property and finances. We can take the load from you and once you have handed over the relevant papers and information, you can leave the rest to us.

We will obtain the Grant of Probate (or Letters of Administration), collect monies and property due to the Estate, sort out and pay taxes and any outstanding debts if appropriate. We can then pay the legacies and distribute the estate to the intended beneficiaries. Administering a friend or relative's Estate should be dealt with sensitively, professionally and with the minimum of fuss. We always give these matters high priority, as we understand that unnecessary delays can be frustrating and sometimes make it more difficult to cope with the loss.