Blog
A blog from Harries Watkins Jones
News, information and explanations about Probate, Wills, Lasting Power of Attorney, Inheritance Tax and related topics, from our team of tax and legal experts. We hope you find them useful and informative. If you have any suggestions for future articles please let us know.
Why can’t I just draft my own Lasting Power of Attorney?
If you draft your Lasting Power of Attorney or LPA yourself, it must be completed correctly, as mistakes are very costly.
Problems with DIY Wills
Many people ask why they should seek professional help to write their Will. A recent legal case highlights some of the pitfalls and what to look out for.
What is a Grant Of Probate?
This is the vital legal document which must be obtained by the executors before most financial institutions such as banks or building Societies, that are holding assets or investments for the deceased will release any funds…
I have been appointed as an Executor but I can`t find a beneficiary
As an executor you are responsible and have a legal duty to administer the deceased`s estate in accordance with their last wishes and as set out in their Will.
Appointing a guardian for your Child/Children in your Will
It is definitely worth considering this if you have children under 18 years of age and are drafting your Will.
Can I leave a family member out of my Will?
Your Will should represent your unique and personal wishes as to who should inherit your assets and estate after your death. You should therefore be free to leave your estate to whoever you choose.
Getting your affairs in order
Most of us will be familiar with this expression but how many of us have considered what it actually means. Whilst most of us are extremely organised and professional during our daily lives in the workplace with our finances, pensions etc all in place, …
Deed Of Variation
This is a useful method for allowing beneficiaries of a Will to rearrange the distribution of the deceased`s estate.
Leaving a Legacy to a Charity
We have all heard recently heard how Charities have been struggling financially during this current pandemic. Which is why it is important now more than ever to consider perhaps leaving them a legacy in your Will.
Dealing with a Death
A recent article in a newspaper has suggested that dealing with Probate for a friend or relative can cause mental health issues for the bereaved.
How you can protect your assets for your children?
This is a particular problem in today`s society where a person may marry more than once in their lifetime. Married couples often prepare Mirror Wills leaving everything to each other and then their children on death.
Inheritance tax – Husband and Wife (or Civil Partners)
No inheritance tax is payable on gifts between spouses or civil partners as long as both parties are domiciled in the UK. This is often used as a basic method of IHT avoidance.
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