Category: Private Client
Dec 2019
Elder abuse: how that expectation of trust can quickly go wrong
I wrote a blog recently about why it is important to seek legal advice when seeking an attorney. This related to some published findings about those acting on behalf of a vulnerable person – and whether or not their intentions were genuine.
Nov 2019
Those without a will could be letting the royals benefit from their cash
I’ve written a number of blogs about the importance of writing a will. But, in an article published in the Times recently, it really brought home the truth of what happens if we fail to write one and die ‘intestate’. The law then determines who will inherit depending on your family circumstances.
Nov 2019
IHT refunds might be due on property sold at loss
Whilst the housing market continues to stagnate, it looks as though there could be some unexpected perks where a property has fallen in value.
Nov 2019
Protective trusts could protect your family
It’s true that many consider trust funds as an outdated concept, but it might be time to dust them off – particularly if you’re looking to protect elderly or vulnerable members of the family.
Nov 2019
Funeral disputes: a rise from the ashes
In many previous blogs, I’ve written about the cause and effect of “unplanned” deaths. The fact that half of us are still dying without a will is leaving many families in turmoil and, according to further statistics released recently by The Gazette (link to: https://www.thegazette.co.uk/all-notices/content/100635) around one quarter of deaths lead to at least one family dispute.
Nov 2019
What is the true cost of care?
Provision of care among the older generation has been under the spotlight for a long time, but, as Britain heads to the polls to vote in the upcoming election, some parties are making the subject of care a political hot potato.
Nov 2019
Have a will? Check you bank
Until 2011, Lloyds bank offered storage in a “Safe Custody” service. This wasn’t just for wills, but indeed could be used for anything that needed to be held safely, such as heirlooms or other valuables. In 2014, the Lloyds Banking Group carried out an audit of safety deposit boxes, but only discovered a widespread problem of unidentifiable belongings in boxes that were not seemingly linked to any owners.
Oct 2019
When is a gift not a gift? When it comes with conditions
I think we’ve all probably been in situations where we have handed out money, either as a loan or a gift, and had good intentions for the recipient. Whether it’s help to buy a car, or purchase a first home, many people often tend to gift money to help out family and friends. But, what happens when the gift of money does not fulfil its intended purpose? Is it still a gift and therefore, the recipient is free to spend as they please? Or, is the donor entitled to it back?
Oct 2019
Freeze in probate fees review is welcome news to families
The Government has announced plans to scrap the rises in probate fees, which will no doubt be welcome news to many bereaved families.
Oct 2019
Time to think about updating your will?
Not many people relish the idea of writing down wishes relating to their death, however, according to research by Royal London, more than half of us in the UK still don’t have one – and 5.4 million don’t even know how to get one.
