estates

When someone passes away, the executor of their Will must value the deceased’s assets. The executor has a duty to collect in the assets, report their value to HM Revenue & Customs and transfer the assets in accordance with the deceased’s wishes.   The vital first six months In the early stages of the administration […]

It is often the case that when part of a parcel of land is sold (or otherwise transferred), the seller will retain rights for the passage of services, electricity, water, gas etc, over, under and through the land being transferred. Equally the buyer will reserve the same rights over the parcel remaining with the seller. […]

Sometimes a person may live abroad but own assets (such as bank accounts, shares, premium bonds or a property) in England and Wales. What happens when that person dies – how will the assets in England and Wales be administered and passed on to the deceased’s beneficiaries? In most cases, in order to be able […]

I go for a my morning walk every day now as part of a new routine I created during “lockdown”. I’m amazed by how many people have pets – I see dogs out for a walk with their owners, cats going into their houses and many horse-riders on the roads. Having had pets, I understand […]

The uncertainty caused by COVID-19 has left many of us thinking about our affairs. This firm’s family wealth team has recently seen an increase in demand for Wills. As a result, we have received an increased number of queries relating to Wills. This article highlights some of the most common misconceptions about Wills, and outlines […]

As the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic continues, social distancing measures have caused increasing challenges for the personal representatives (PRs) of estates. As the situation develops, new measures are frequently being implemented by both the Court (HMCTS) and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to adapt their current processes during the pandemic. This article highlights some […]

How is the current social distancing and self-isolation guidance affecting the traditional private client practice of will making, lasting powers of attorney and estate planning? As the legal profession continues to adapt to the disruptions and uncertainty caused by COVID-19, private client professionals have seen a significant increase in the volume of enquiries from individuals […]