Ministry of Justice figures have revealed that over the past five years, the number of Wills disputes reaching the courts has increased by a shocking 61%. Disagreements after a death can be very damaging, both to family relationships, and to finances, with protracted litigation likely to place a strain on estate funds. What is causing
Why are Wills disputes on the increase? Read More »
Older homeowners are increasingly being targeted by firms hoping to profit by selling so-called ‘asset protection trusts’, costing thousands of pounds. Not only are the trusts ineffective, but they can also leave homeowners with complex legal difficulties when they find they no longer own their properties. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has been warning about
The asset protection trust mis-selling scandal Read More »
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a powerful document in planning for the future. It allows you to appoint someone to deal with your affairs and make decisions on your behalf, should this ever become necessary. We look at how to choose the right person as your representative. You can make two different types
Who should I choose to be my attorney in my Lasting Power of Attorney? Read More »
With the autumn budget due on 26 November 2025, the continuing increase in Inheritance Tax (IHT) liability for estates is challenging affected individuals to look at different ways of structuring their finances for the future. As the government continues to raise more funds by way of IHT, The Times and brokers and financial advisers are
Financial planning and the autumn budget Read More »
While it is possible to gift your home to your children, there are numerous implications. It is important to understand the effect the gift could have on your rights, the financial position of both you and your children, and what tax or other liabilities could arise. Additionally, it is not legally possible to give away
Can I gift property to my children? Read More »
If you are the executor or administrator of an estate, you may need to sell a property. Find out what to be aware of and how the probate sale process works. Dealing with an estate administration can be daunting, as well as emotionally difficult, particularly if there is a property to clear and sell. As
How do I sell a probate property? Read More »
The Ministry of Justice has announced that the fee for registering a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) will increase from £82 to £92 on 17th November 2025. Repeat application fees will rise from £41 to £46. Having a Lasting Power of Attorney in place is an essential part of planning for the future. It allows
Lasting Power of Attorney application fee to rise Read More »
When money in a bank or building society is unclaimed for 15 years, the organisation can transfer the assets to the Dormant Assets Scheme (the Scheme). This is a government and financial industry initiative that allows unclaimed funds to be used for social and environmental purposes where the owner cannot be contacted. The Scheme has
The Dormant Assets Scheme explained, and how to avoid your money becoming part of it Read More »
Selling someone’s property as their attorney or deputy If you have been appointed as an attorney under a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) or a deputy under a deputyship order, the time may come when you need to sell a property on behalf of the person whose affairs you are managing. It is essential to
Selling someone’s property as their attorney or deputy Read More »
Estates being stolen after death of individuals with no Will A recent investigation by the BBC has exposed the extent of thefts carried out in cases where someone dies without a Will. The report, published in early July 2025, looked at the estates of several deceased individuals who had not left a Will. It found
Estates being stolen after death of individuals with no Will Read More »