Cohabiting - the law should reflect this ever growing demographic
With cohabiting couples not attracting the same legal rights and protection as married couples, Scott Haslam from Wake Smith Solicitors asks if the law should be brought into the 21st century to reflect this ever…
Inheritance tax relief - don't miss out
The Residence Nil Rate Band Allowance (RNRB) is a tax relief for those who may inherit property which can reduce the amount of inheritance tax payable. It came into effect in April 2017. Suzanne Porter, a director…
Not said ‘I do’ yet?
If you are living with your partner, but not married, are you aware that if you were to die your partner would have no automatic right to any of your assets? Wake Smith private client solicitor Louise Rudkin looks…
Think of the children
Wake Smith private client solicitor Louise Rudkin looks at the practicalities and responsibilities of becoming a new mum. “Having recently become a new parent, my mind has turned to the important issue of updating…
Succession Planning Post Brexit
Many UK nationals own assets in the European Union and may be asking what will happen to those assets once we have left the EU? Suzanne Porter, a director and private client solicitor at Wake Smith Solicitors,…
Lasting Powers of Attorney - the importance of proactive planning
Suzanne Porter, private client solicitor at Wake Smith, looks at how proactive planning can provide reassurance with regard to Lasting Powers of Attorney. A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document which allows…
Lasting Powers of Attorney for business owners
Most people tend to assume that powers of attorney are only for the elderly and that the rest of us can manage without. Whilst the risks of losing capacity may increase with age, any of us can be involved in an…
Make sure your will is up to date
A chance to sit down and review your will is important. With regular changes to the law, and to your personal circumstances, it is recommended that you should do this about every five years. Wake Smith private…
Meet the Wills & Probate team
Prudent estate planning and putting in place a will, lasting power of attorney or even a family trust can provide peace of mind for you and avoid unnecessary stress and anxiety for family members in the event of…
Probate fees increase – fair and proportionate or stealth tax?
From May this year, assuming the Government give the go-ahead, the probate registry fee will increase vastly for all estates worth more than £50,000. The current fee payable to the Probate Registry to obtain a…
