The impact of COVID-19 on making a Will
The global pandemic has prompted many of us to put our affairs in order. According to the Law Society, enquiries for Wills are up 30%. Whilst this is great news as it estimated that barely 40% of UK adults have…
Storing your Will
The original versions of legal documents such as Wills and Powers of Attorney are the only legally binding versions. It is important to keep these documents safe, but also to let your executor know where they…
Wake Smith lawyer appointed as Diocesan Registrar
Rachel Baseley from Wake Smith Solicitors has been appointed as Registrar for the Diocese of Sheffield and Legal Secretary to the Bishop of Sheffield. Private client solicitor Rachel has spent the past year as…
Wake Smith recruits private client paralegal
Paralegal Jennifer Robinson has joined Sheffield based Wake Smith Solicitors’ private client team. Jennifer (24) joins the six-strong team from specialist estate lawyers April King Legal where she spent the last…
Entered into a civil partnership? You need to update your Will
Opposite-sex couples entering into register civil partnerships should consider how this will affect their existing Wills. The Civil Partnership (Opposite-sex Couples) Regulations 2019, passed by Lords late last…
Law changes if you die without a Will
Changes to the amount that your spouse or civil partner may receive on your death from your estate if you die without a Will will kick in from next month. Amendments to the law, which come into effect from February…
New decade, new year, new focus, new Will?
The start of a new year often sees people set new health, fitness, work and lifestyle goals. 2020, and the start of a new decade, is a great time to ensure your personal affairs are in order, including making a…
Possible delays now Sheffield’s Probate Registry Office closes
The recent closure of Sheffield’s Probate Registry office – which offered probate help and advice - could lead to delays around cases say Sheffield lawyers. The office, based at the Law Courts on West Bar, has…
Pets are considered property, so include them in your Will
If you have no valid Will in England or Wales and no living family members, all your possessions, including your pets, will go to the Crown when you depart this world. So if you want your possessions, including…
If you live alone and don’t have much to your name – do you need a will?
If you are single and live in a rented house or flat, and have no children and a small amount of savings, do you need a Will? Suzanne Porter, director and head of the Private Client team at Wake Smith Solicitors…
