Blogs
When should I tell the utility companies I’m moving house?
There’s an awful lot to think about when moving house, and most people end up compiling a very long ‘to do’ list. When it comes to dealing with the utility companies, like your energy supplier and your water company, here are a few hints and tips to ensure the move goes as smoothly as possibl....
If I lost mental capacity, could my husband just deal with everything on my behalf?
This is a question that we often get asked. Many people automatically assume that if there came a time when they lacked mental capacity, then their husband, family member or friend could simply step in and act on their behalf. However, this isn’t the case. By 2021, the Alzheimer’s Society pre....
I’ve heard the term ‘Permitted Development’, what does it mean?
In a move designed to simplify and streamline the planning process, under what’s called ‘Permitted Development Rights’, the government allows you to undertake certain types of building projects on your property without needing to apply for planning permission. Points to bear in ....
Can I get copies of my medical records?
Yes, you can. Everybody has the right to access their medical records. You are entitled to see your private health records as well as your NHS records. If you want another person to access your records on your behalf, you will need to authorise them to do so. You don’t have to explain why you w....
Inheritance Tax – how will it affect my family?
Put simply, Inheritance Tax (IHT) is a tax on money, property, savings, investments and possessions you leave behind when you die. The continued rise in house prices has meant that the number of families paying IHT has grown, with many facing a mounting IHT liability simply because they own a fam....
Now that I’m divorced, can I change my name back to my maiden name?
The short answer is yes, you can. Many women no longer want to be known by their former husband's name after their divorce. You are not required by law to change your name back to your maiden name, but the opportunity is there for you to do so if you wish. If your married name was exactly the sam....
What is a covenant?
Moving house, as we all know, can be a very stressful time. Most people assume that once they've purchased a property they can relax as they are free to do what they like with it. They know they might need planning permission or building regulation approval from the local council before they do thin....
Common Law Spouses
We're not married, but we've been together for 25 years. When I die will my partner inherit? Many people believe that there is a 'common-law spouse' status in UK law, but in fact this is a myth and doesn't exist. So, when one partner in a cohabiting couple dies without leaving a valid Will,....
We’ve been married less than a year – can we get a divorce?
The short answer is no, you can't. You have to be married for a least a year before you can start divorce proceedings. Once you have been married for one year, you can start proceedings by issuing a divorce petition. However, there are other steps you can take. A Separation Agreement In ....
What happens on my moving day?
You'll remember this day, probably forever, especially if it's your first purchase. It will undoubtedly be a bit stressful, but what will keep you going is the thought that, if everything goes according to plan, by the end of the day you will have the keys to your new property. Just remember to have....
What can I do if I think a loved one’s death is unusual?
The death of a loved one is a devastating blow that sadly most of us will face at some time in our lives. In most cases, the circumstances and cause are clear, but what should you do if you think that something isn’t right and needs to be investigated? At home If death is sudden and un....
Attwaters Jameson Hill’s Ten Tips for Planning Applicants
There's lots to consider when making a planning application – these top ten tips will help to ease the stress and speed up the process. Take early advice – to ensure that any representations either via an application or correspondence to the Council are termed correctly from the start. We h....
