Category: Private Client

Liz Dalgetty Apr 2019

Why now is the most important time for the LPA

Lasting Powers of Attorney, or LPAs are legal documents that outlines for an individual who is or are appointed as an attorney/s in the event that the person making the LPA is not able to make decisions for themselves during their lifetime. There are two types of LPA, one covering property and financial affairs and the other in relation to health and welfare decisions including medical. LPAs are extremely important – as without one, your wishes and feelings may not be properly taken into account and there is no one to step in and make any decision needed in your best interests. In some cases sadly without an LPA the result in arguments amongst the family, particularly where there is a second marriage.

Liz Dalgetty Apr 2019

LPAS – Are you claiming Council Tax Relief?

Consumer website, MoneySavingExpert, has embarked on a long-running campaign to raise awareness of council tax discounts that are available to those who are considered “severely mentally impaired” – and it can include carers too.

Liz Dalgetty Apr 2019

Communication is key in bringing down Will Disputes

When it comes to wills, some clients come to me following the loss of a loved one, questioning whether their will was written fairly. It is often quite surprising to know what many of these clients are unaware that it is possible to contest a will, despite the fact it is a legal document.

Liz Dalgetty Apr 2019

Powers of Attorney Guidelines need to take neglect more seriously

According to a recent article in The Times, which reported statistics from the Public Guardian, around 2,000 cases a week are linked to allegations of financial and physical abuse.

Liz Dalgetty Mar 2019

Willing to get writing? Here are a few things to consider

Thankfully, will writing is being given more air time than it used to, but, it still doesn’t stop nearly two thirds of us not having one.

Sophie Campbell Mar 2019

What happens if... My partner dies without leaving a will?

Around 60% of adults in the UK still don’t have a will – even though dying without one could mean leaving loved ones without an inheritance, or, worse, homeless with no rights over the estate. Writing a will also ensures that your wishes are made clear to your family and it can help protect any dependents.

Amber O’Connor Feb 2019

March in to Making A Will

An up-to-date will written by a solicitor is the best way to ensure your wishes will be respected. It allows you to provide for your family and friends and leave a gift to your chosen charities too. It is also a chance to think about updating your will if you have not done so in a while.

Chris Millar Jan 2019

Sort out debts this Blue Monday to avoid being left out in the cold

Monday 21 January has become known as Blue Monday. It has been saddled with lots of negative connotations, from long, dark, cold days to distant paydays and the festive season a distant memory. However, one of the major contributions to Blue Monday is debt as the Christmas credit card bills start to land on the doormat. But, addressing debt early doesn’t have to be scary – and it can help you avoid a whole host of problems later on.

Liz Dalgetty Jan 2019

Your family or your finances: What would you choose?

You’d think the answer to this question would be easy and that anyone would choose family over any situation. However, it seems at times we forget how our assets, such as property and finances, can tear families apart.

Liz Dalgetty Nov 2018

Bringing your investments "Home" for probate purposes

If you hold any overseas shareholdings, you might just find a very costly sting in the tail on your estate – so inheritance planning is key.