WILLS, TRUSTS & PROBATE

Wills

Making a Will is vitally important if you wish to ensure that on your death your money, personal belongings and property are distributed in the way that you would wish.  If you fail to make a Will and die ‘intestate’, your assets will be distributed in accordance with strict rules of law which may place your spouse, partner or children in unnecessary financial difficulties.  Moreover, the rapid rise in property prices means that more and more people’s estates will be liable to inheritance tax, so making a tax efficient Will now could save your family many thousands of pounds.

We have specialists based at both our Huddersfield and Holmfirth offices dealing with Wills who will be able to give expert advice on the best course of action to ensure that your wishes will be carried out and that any liability to pay inheritance tax is avoided or minimized.

Probate and Administration of Estates

A bereavement in the family is always an upsetting and emotional time.  Our Probate and Trust team has considerable experience in administering estates and offers an efficient, personal and caring service at this difficult time.  We look after all aspects of the estate administration including applications for Probate of the Will or Letters of Administration to the Estate and keep beneficiaries informed of progress.  We can also advise Executors and beneficiaries on the scope for tax planning in the estate.

Enduring Powers of Attorney

An Enduring Power of Attorney grants authority to another person or persons to manage your financial affairs and the authority can continue even if you lose your mental ability.  If you have not planned ahead for this contingency then it may be necessary for someone to apply for a Court Order to manage your affairs. An Enduring Power of Attorney can save your family a great deal of anxiety and difficulty should you need someone to manage your affairs.  The Power of Attorney can take effect immediately if you wish or only in the event of you becoming mentally incapable or physically disabled. 

An Enduring Power of Attorney is a relatively simple but important document which we can tailor to meet your individual needs.

If you have an Enduring Power of Attorney which needs to be registered with the Court then we can assist you with the application.

Trusts

Our specialists have many years experience in setting up and administering trusts for clients and advising on the associated tax issues.

Elderly Client Matters

Our solicitors have considerable experience in advising clients on matters which affect the elderly, in particular those elderly people who may be facing the prospect of having to enter a residential care or nursing home and are worried about what will happen to the family home or their savings.  Please contact us for practical advice and assistance.

For further help contact Mr Ian Holmes at our Huddersfield Office on 01484 435543 or email ian.holmes@baileysmailes.co.uk or Sarah Palmer at our Holmfirth Office on 01484 686000 or email sarah.palmer@baileysmailes.co.uk.