When someone dies without making a will, the law prescribes who benefits from that estate. It is important to realise that in the absence of a will, the cohabitee has no automatic rights to any part of a deceased estate: if there are children it will go to them. It is important whenever there is long term cohabitation and you treat each other as though you were married, you should make a will.
By making a will, you can decide what happens to your possessions after death and it is the best way to ensure that family and friends get what you wish them to.
Our work includes the following specialisms:
Wills and Living Wills
When contemplating making a will, you need to consider a range of areas to make sure it fulfils its purpose.
Strategic Estate Planning
To manage your assets effectively and efficiently, we develop our strategic plans for our clients and guide them in the day to day management of wealth. With years of experience, we are able to put in place realistic solutions in managing your wealth. We bring to bear a wealth of expertise in many vital tax issues, including detailed knowledge of the exemptions and reliefs available.
Lasting Powers of Attorney
Attorneys can make decisions for you when you no longer wish to or when you lack the mental capacity to do so. We can offer professional advice and assistance on all areas of Lasting Power of Attorney, helping you choose the most suitable option for your personal circumstances.
Probate and Estate Administration
We offer specialist expertise in the handling of (sometimes sensitive) family issues, advising on the terms of wills or the application of intestacy rules as well as preparing for and obtaining grants of representation
Trusts
We currently administer substantial trusts and are able to advise on the drafting and construction of settlements and trusts, the preparation and execution of ancillary documents and the duties and liabilities of trustees. We also act as trustees and deal with the general administration.