WILLS

The consequences of dying without making a Will ("intestate") can be quite unexpected, and may be devastating for those left behind to pick up the pieces.  For example, if you are not married or have not entered into a civil partnership and die intestate your partner may not automatically be entitled to your estate.  Even if you have a spouse/civil partner the law lays down certain rules as to how the estate is divided which may not accord with what you would want. Making a professionally drafted Will ensures that your wishes will be carried out, and also that all aspects of inheritance tax are examined and catered for so far as the law allows.

If you have not made a Will at all or have not made one for a long time, contact us and we will guide you through the process.

PROBATE

Probate is the term loosely applied to the winding up of someone's affairs on their death.  Technically it applies only to those estates where there is a will, and is the court's seal of approval that the Will has been properly written and signed and can be used as evidence to collect and get in assets.  Where there is no Will, then an Administrator has to be appointed by the court. This causes delay and there are rules as to who can fill the role – yet another reason to make a Will!

Dealing with the affairs of a recently deceased loved one can be stressful and upsetting, but we have many years of experience in this field and we can help you with as much or as little of the process as you choose. We will explain the options at the initial interview.

If therefore you have recently lost a friend or relative and you have been appointed their executor, or are the relative of someone who has died without making a Will, contact us for a free estimate of the costs of administering their estate.

If you think you have a claim against the estate of someone who has died without considering you as a beneficiary, we can assist in the assessment of your claim and guide you through the process of making it.