Wills, Trusts and Probates
Wills
The importance of making a Will cannot be overstated. Seven out of ten people in this country die without making a Will, which nearly always causes distress and often family disputes. Homemade Wills can be the cause of as many problems, if not more. Unless you are absolutely sure of the correct wording, you should always consult a solicitor.
A Greenland Houchen Will is tailor-made to your own requirements and our practitioners take into account your financial circumstances, family and commitments, as well as the likely risk of inheritance tax liability, when advising you on and constructing your Will.
Because of the increase in property values over and above the rate of inflation, principally, more and more couples are concerned that their estates will be liable for inheritance tax on the death of the surviving spouse. Click here to open a new window containing Greenland Houchen's informative Adobe pdf file detailing our cost effective and flexible loan back discretionary trust Will arrangement. Alternatively you may right click on the link and save the file to your desktop for viewing or printing at your leisure.
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Probate
After a death in a family, it is
important to those left behind that the estate is dealt with in a sympathetic
and efficient manner. Many who have been appointed executor under a Will find
the task onerous and time consuming, particularly if they are also trying to
cope with bereavement. They may also find that there are pressures from other
members of the family to move matters on as fast as possible. The executor will
be responsible for obtaining valuations of all the assets, ascertaining the
liabilities, including any tax due, applying for the Grant of Representation,
gathering in the assets, settling any outstanding liabilities and distributing
the assets in accordance with the Will. Where there is no Will the procedure
is similar and the estate is then distributed in accordance with the law of
intestacy.
Greenland Houchen can relieve those who are dealing with the estate of much
if not all the burden and pressures at a very difficult time
In some cases a trust may have to be set up. Some trusts can last for many years
and we recommend that you consult us, possibly in conjunction with an Independent
Financial Advisor.
Power of Attorney
With people living longer, we are
seeing an increasing number of cases where people are no longer able to look
after their personal and financial affairs. Greenland Houchen can offer guidance
and practical assistance in appointing attorneys, either voluntarily or through
the court of protection, which is particularly important for those taking on
the responsibilities for elderly or disabled loved ones.
An Enduring Power of Attorney can be completed and kept with a Will until such
time as is required. We strongly recommend doing this as it can save a great
deal of time and expense at a later date.
Greenland Houchen is also happy to act as attorney for those who do not have
a suitable person close to them who can deal with their affairs.
To arrange an appointment contact our Wills, Trusts and Probates specialists:
Norwich office 01603 660744. Attleborough office 01953 453143. Watton office 01953 882864
© Greenland Houchen Solicitors 2002.