Blogs
Donationes mortis causa – what is a ‘deathbed gift’?
During the Covid-19 pandemic, the validation of legal documents became a significant challenge due to the need for witnesses to be physically present. Although temporary legislation was passed on 31 January 2020 to enable the signing of Wills to be witnessed using video conferencing technology, thi....
Inquiry calls for change in probate service crisis
Analysis of Ministry of Justice data shows that there has been a 65% increase in probate cases taking a year or longer to clear. These delays are continuing to cause significant emotional distress and financial losses for families who are already going through an incredibly difficult time in their ....
When fees transparency meets unreasonable behaviour
As lawyers, our reputation is built on the quality of our advice, the outcomes we deliver for our clients, and our commitment to transparency and honesty when it comes to explaining the fees our clients will pay for the services we provide. It is this last aspect that will be the focus of our bl....
Do grandparents have rights?
In many families, grandparents play a huge role in their grandchildren’s lives, their upbringing and their welfare - from providing childcare to supporting them financially through their education. As a society we are increasingly recognising the unique bond between grandparents and grandchildren....
Anne Robinson provides a lesson in estate planning
The news that Anne Robinson has given away her £50 million fortune to avoid paying inheritance tax has recently caused a splash around the media. But can gifting your fortune really keep the taxman away? And what does the story tell us about the importance of estate planning? Inheritance....
Executor of will vs power of attorney – what’s the difference?
In the world of estate planning, there are two legal roles that often get confused: executor and attorney. The former is responsible for carrying out the wishes of a deceased person as per their Will, whilst the latter is responsible for looking after a person’s money and welfare while they ar....
‘Clarkson’s Law’ and the conversion of agricultural buildings
Jeremy Clarkson’s foray into the world of farming has been followed with interest by the nation since the launch of his hit television show, Clarkson’s Farm, in 2021. Previously known for his penchant for fast cars in his role as Top Gear host, and later as Chris Tarrant’s replacement on Who ....
What happens if my child misses school during term time?
As the summer holidays approach, families may be thinking about removing their child from school during term time to take them on holiday. It is understandable why so many people consider this; after all, holidays are so much cheaper during term time and what harm will a few missed school days real....
Leasehold reform becomes law
The Leasehold and Freehold Reform bill has become law – one of the last pieces of legislation to make it through Parliament before it was dissolved in preparation for July’s general election. The reforms, which have been the subject of a great deal of scrutiny over the past few years, aim to ma....
Why you should keep your Will regularly updated
Andrew Flannagan, Head of our Wills, Trusts & Probate department, has decades of experience in estate administration, tax planning, Wills and Powers of Attorney. In this blog, he explains why making a Will is not enough – you have to keep it up to date, too. As an experienced Wills & P....
Courts changing their approach to the future of family law
Family law disputes have sometimes had a reputation for conflict. At a stressful time in your personal life, having to fight a court battle can be an unwelcome thought. In recent years, there has been a big shift away from this confrontational style of divorce proceedings. Now, updates to the fa....
How to tell your children you’re getting a divorce
Making the decision to separate from your spouse can be absolutely heartbreaking. You are facing the prospect of breaking up your family and of moving forward into an uncertain future. Now, you might also be wondering how on Earth to tell your children you are splitting up without adding to their i....
