Wills & Probate

When someone dies their money and property (their Estate) needs to be dealt with.  Usually an Executor has been appointed in a Will and it is their job to collect assets, pay debts and make distributions in accordance with the Will.  Where there is no Will, a person may be appointed as an administrator and the Estate will be dealt with under the intestacy laws.  Our experienced probate department can advise and deal with all aspects of the division of an Estate.

Occasionally the division of an estate may be contested and, again, our experienced probate department can assist.

The distribution of an Estate of someone who dies without a Will or with an out of date Will may not always reflect the wishes of the person who has died.  We always recommend that clients keep their Wills up to date.  We shall ensure that your Will is written in a way that reflects your wishes.  We will also advise you about matters that may affect your Will such as Inheritance Tax and potential claims against your Estate.

If you or a member of your family can foresee the day when you may be unable to manage your financial affairs, we can also advise you about making a Lasting Power of Attorney whilst you or they have the mental capacity to do so.  We can also advise about registration of Enduring Powers of Attorney and applications to the Court of Protection. 
 
Our private client department prides itself on its friendly, helpful and professional service.