probate & trusts

probate

When someone dies, we are able to assist you in dealing with their affairs.

We advise personal representatives (i.e. executors or administrators) in taking the appropriate steps to obtain the Grant of Probate which is the key to dealing with the assets of the estate. Comprehensive accounts are provided as well as expertise in advising on any trusts that are contained in a deceased person’s Will.

Our extensive experience means that we can deal with the administration effectively, making sure that you understand the issues that may arise and that you are aware of what work is being carried out.

We can advise on tax-saving options for varying the estate after death if appropriate.

We can assist you with:

• your duties as personal representatives
• preparing and filing the HM Revenue & Customs account
• Grant of Probate (where there is a will)
• Letters of Administration (where there is no will)
• estate accounts
• post-death variations/deed of family arrangements
• tax issues

trusts

We can help you with the creation and administration of a variety of trusts including discretionary and other family trusts. Where appropriate we are prepared to act as trustees.

We can assist you with:

• lifetime settlements
• disabled persons’ settlements
• trusts created by will, including nil rate band discretionary trusts

We can also advise on the tax treatment of trusts

contentious trusts and probate

We can advise on disputes that may arise in relation to a deceased person’s estate or the administration of a trust.

We can assist you with:

• validity of wills
• negligence actions
• claims against personal representatives
• trust disputes
• claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975

Our probate and trust solicitors at our Richmond office are members of The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) (www.step.org.uk) which is the recognised professional body for experienced solicitors in the field of trusts, estates and wills. We have membership of the Law Society’s Probate Section and Solicitors for the Elderly.

For further information or assistance, please contact:

TEP*: Registered member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP)