No one wants to think about what we know is inevitable and hope is still a long way off, but when it comes to making a will it is best to be prepared. Too many of us don’t get around to it for one reason or another and it can create complications for our loved…
No one likes to think about having to deal with probate issues, but it is something that we will come across at some point in our life. Understanding the basics of probate and what it entails will help you to manage the process with your chosen specialist and will help alleviate some of the stress…
With people living healthier and longer lives, it is not uncommon to look for sources of income other than pensions which may be limited. As time goes on, this is likely to become even more important as our life expectancy increases and pensions decrease. Many of us turn to our homes as a way of…
Who should prepare a will? In a word, everyone. Put simply, if you die without a will you have no say over how your assets are distributed and they will be allocated according to what the law says at the time of your death. The issue comes to the fore whenever a celebrity passes away…
Earlier this summer the Law Commission published a consultation paper setting out its proposals for changes to the law when it comes to wills. They argue that the current law of wills is outdated and that in today’s modern world we can do better at protecting the vulnerable while honouring their wishes. The existing laws…
After someone dies, the foremost question which arises pertaining to the assets and property of the deceased is that who is going to deal with them? There is only one way to do it, and that is through the courts and the law. An “executor” is appointed under the will of the deceased. In the…
Inheritance Tax is a complex issue and is one that people don’t consider either when making a will. Moreover, when people are coming to terms with a bereavement, the last thing people want to concern themselves with is a complicated tax system. Often people dealing with inheritance are grieving, and it’s only later that they…
A deed of variation is a document that changes the provision and distribution of a will after a person has died or changes the way inheritance is distributed in the case of an individual who dies without a will. When a person has died and left a will, there may be several reasons why a…
Dealing with the death of a relative or someone close to you is never easy, and while you want to do all you can for them, you often need your time and space to grieve for the loss. It is a privilege that your friend or relative has chosen you to be the executor of…
What is the Medallion Guarantee? The Medallion Signature Guarantee or its short version name, the Medallion Guarantee is an instrument that was developed in the United States that guarantees the authenticity of a signature authorising the transfer of securities. This device is guaranteed using a special certification stamp. This guarantee is only required when securities…