Will Writing

Law Commission report on modernising Wills published Much of the current law governing Wills dates back to Victorian times and critics have long held that modernisation is needed. The Law Commission has looked at the potential for change and produced a report setting out its recommendations. With a great wealth transfer expected as substantial assets

Can you challenge a Will? After a death, you may have concerns over the Will. This could be because you do not believe it is valid or because you have been left out when you feel that you should have been included. We look at when a Will can be challenged and how to start

Aristocratic family in bitter feud over estate William Seymour, Earl of Yarmouth, has taken the trustees of his family’s estate to the High Court, alleging that the relationship of trust and confidence between them and him, as a trust beneficiary, has broken down. The case stems from an inheritance dispute, including his allegations that he

When do you need a Letter of Wishes and is it legally binding?  When you make your Will, there may be wishes that you want to express to your executors but that do not need to be included in the Will. These can go in a Letter of Wishes. We explain when to write one

Warning to retirees of draining pension in ‘lottery effect’  Research carried out by financial services and asset management company Legal & General (L&G) has found that those reaching retirement could be jeopardising their future by spending too much of their pension early on.  Individuals currently receive access to large sums of money overnight, leading to

Understanding mirror Wills and mutual Wills  If you and your partner or spouse want to make similar Wills, you have several options, including mirror Wills and mutual Wills. We take a look at the benefits of mirror and mutual Wills, as well as the pitfalls of not having the right Will in place.  It is

What information are estate beneficiaries entitled to? After someone’s death, the executors or administrators of an estate have the task of winding up the deceased’s affairs. This can be a lengthy process and it is sometimes the case that beneficiaries ask for information. We look at their rights and what they are entitled to know. 

The increased risk of inheritance disputes after divorce and remarriage If you have been through a divorce or separation or you are considering marrying, it is important to review your Will. There is a risk of a dispute amongst family members if your Will does not accurately reflect your position and what you want to

Having a Will is an essential part of future-planning. It ensures that your chosen beneficiaries will be looked after and reduces the risk of disagreements between family members. Find out below seven of the most important clauses to include in a Will. 1. Appoint your executors You need to choose one or more executors to

If you are named as an executor in the Will of someone who has died, you will be responsible for winding up their estate. We look at some of the issues you need to be aware of before you start dealing with the administration. If, for any reason, you do not want to take on