This year’s Autumn Statement was notable for what it did not say rather than what it did. Despite the rumours and speculation in the build-up to the Autumn Statement, the Chancellor did not announce a reduction or simplification of Inheritance Tax, meaning that over the coming years more and more estates will be caught in the Inheritance Tax rules.

Choosing a solicitor for your Will ensures legal clarity, reducing the risk of errors or disputes. A professional will navigate the complexities and safeguard your wishes effectively.

In the first part of this insight we discussed two of the main life changes which can necessitate changes to your Will being marriage and divorce.  We now consider other life changes which occur and can create situations which necessitate changes to your Will.

The importance of making a Will which reflects your wishes is therefore paramount but, after making your Will, when should you consider reviewing whether it still reflects your wishes particularly if your circumstances have changed.   

If you have a child or children under the age of 18, you may have thought about appointing a guardian. But what exactly would this entail, both for you and for them?

The day-to-day steps taken by attorneys and deputies are quite similar – but there are some important differences. This question-and-answer document may help to answer some of the more frequent questions people have. 

For many people, the family home is their principal asset and a question which we regularly get asked by our clients is whether they should give away their property, or whether they should put it into joint names with their children.

The UK Parliament has now passed the Powers of Attorney Bill enabling the Office of the Public Guardian to introduce a new system for Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs).

At a time when bereaved families already have so much to manage, the prolonged delays in the issue of Grants of Probate is not only costing time but, in some cases, money.

The Court of Protection has announced a new mental capacity assessment form (COP3) which should be used as part of applications to the Court.

According to the UK Government, a new Statutory Legacy of £322,000 has been set through a Statutory Instrument. This fixed net sum will come into effect on 26th July 2023.

In certain circumstances, it may be necessary for somebody else to manage an individual's account. If the account holder gives someone else the authority to do so, typically that person will have the same authority to manage the account as the owner.