Estate planning
Although most of us would rather avoid thinking about it, we all need to make plans for dealing with the assets we leave behind when we die. Taking the time now to prepare and implement an estate plan can save a lot of time, money, and heartache for those you leave behind. We can provide you with legal advice on preparing and putting that estate plan in place, assist with the administration of estates after death and we can also advise and represent you if you have not been provided for adequately in a will.
Our Estate Planning Team can advise on:
- Drafting your will
- The advantages and disadvantages a family trust would have for your estate plan
- Enduring powers of attorney
- Relationship property agreements
- Gifting
Please contact Matthew Peploe for further advice.
Our Estate Administration Team can assist with:
- Obtaining a grant of probate or letters of administration
- Negotiating and documenting family arrangements to vary the terms of a will
- The administration of estates
Please contact Melissa Chilcott for further advice.
Our Estate Disputes Team can represent you to:
- Challenge a will maker’s capacity
- Make a claim when you have not been provided for adequately in the will including claims under the Family Protection Act and the Property (Relationships) Act
- Defend claims as an Executor or make claims against Executors
Please contact Sarah Rawcliffe for further advice.
Read our articles on estate planning
Tenants in common vs joint tenants: why ownership matters for estate planning
When buying or owning property with someone else, it is easy to focus on the practical details and overlook how the ownership is recorded. However, the way a property is owned can have important consequences later on, particularly when it comes to estate planning and what happens after an owner passes away.
Joint Accounts and Estates: Untangling Ownership
Joint bank accounts are often viewed as a convenient way to assist aging family members to manage their funds in this increasingly technological world. However, while joint bank accounts may simplify day to day banking and bill payments for aging family members, they can create complications from an estate planning and estate administration perspective. Understanding these risks is essential before adding another person to an account or relying on joint ownership as an estate planning strategy.
