‘Advanced decisions’ – frequently asked questions

Posted on 12th January 2023

One thrid of us know someone who has been diagnosed with dementia

Research shows that rates of dementia are rising in the UK.

More than half of UK adults know someone who has been diagnosed with dementia and it’s estimated that one in three people born in the UK in 2022 will develop dementia in their lifetime.

One way for the people affected and their loved ones to retain control over decisions about medical treatment and healthcare is to make an ‘advanced decision’.

Delays in probate are still continuing

Posted on 22nd December 2022

HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) has admitted that probate delays continue to increase for digital and paper applications, even where there aren’t any reasons for them to be stopped.

Allow for dealys when applying for grant of probate

Are you giving cash gifts this Christmas?

Posted on 9th December 2022

Cash gofts at Christmas can be tax efficient

Money is tight this year, so cash might be a good alternative for a Christmas gift for your friends, family, or favourite charity. Before you give cash gifts, here are some things to consider.

Plan today to reduce tomorrow’s inheritance tax

Posted on 25th November 2022

When you die your family could need to pay inheritance tax (IHT) on your estate. However, with some estate planning in advance you can help to reduce the amount of IHT due.

Here's a lady using her laptop to plan for inheritance tax

Should Will writing be regulated?

Posted on 11th November 2022

You need more than a pen and some paper to write a Will. Should it be regulated?

According to a recent online survey 98% of people think that Will writing should be regulated.

Unregulated legal services are meeting almost 10% of people’s legal needs and almost 40% for small businesses.

Will writing is a large part of this unregulated activity, which could be a concern for older and more vulnerable people.

When are you old? Life expectancy across the UK

Posted on 26th October 2022

Many people think that writing a Will or setting up Lasting Powers of Attorney are things that they will do when they are old.

But what is old age? Is it linked with how long you expect to live?

People a often fit and active well into their later years, so when are you old?

Make sure your assets aren’t lost when you die

Posted on 12th October 2022

Using a smartphone and digital account is common but leaves little evidence of your assets when you die

Moving to online banking and turning off paper statements is convenient and popular. However, it’s easy to forget that this means there’s very little to tell your loved ones where your assets are when you die.

If they don’t have access to your digital devices and account details they might never find what you have left behind.

Bereavement Support Payment: what is it?

Posted on 26th September 2022

If your husband, wife, or civil partner died in the last 21 months you could be eligible for the Bereavement Support Payment (BSP).

It is a welfare benefit to help you financially following your loss. It replaces the Bereavement Allowance (previously the Widow’s Pension), Bereavement Payment, and Widowed Parent’s Allowance.

As well as the support of friends and family you need financial help when your partner dies and there are children to think about

Legal loopholes that can help you reduce inheritance tax

Posted on 12th September 2022

Inheritance tax rules are like a ball of wool and there are definitely some loopholes.

Many families are likely to pay inheritance tax (IHT) when someone dies. However, there are some reliefs, exemptions and simple strategies that can help to reduce IHT.

Vulnerable people need protection as guidance changes

Posted on 26th August 2022

The Law Society of England and Wales has highlighted the importance of protecting people who might lack capacity to make decisions about their care.

The Law Society has raised concerns in its response to the government’s proposed changes to the Mental Capacity Act Code of Practice.

Like this butterfly, vulnerable people need to be protected from unfair deprivation of liberty