A health and welfare lasting power of attorney is becoming an increasingly popular tool for people who want certainty about how their affairs should be managed if they lose mental capacity. It allows you, the donor, to state in a legally binding document who you would...
Private client law
Trustees need to register non-taxable trusts by 1 September
Details of most non-taxable trusts must be registered with the Trust Registration Service by 1 September this year, under recent rules introduced by HM Revenue & Customs. Trustees should act now to ensure their non-taxable trusts are registered properly by the...
Leaving a gift to charity in your will, and reduce inheritance tax
Leaving a legacy to charity is a popular way to support the causes that are important to you, without dipping into your financial reserves while you might still need them, as well as reducing your inheritance tax bill.
Do we need to value an estate for probate?
When someone has died, it will be necessary to calculate the total value of their estate, and this needs to be done fairly promptly – so it can be helpful to ensure your personal paperwork filing is up to date, clearly labelled and easy to find.
Could you benefit from making a lasting power of attorney?
Have you ever thought about what would happen if you lost the ability to make important decisions as a result of an accident or an illness, such as a stroke or dementia? Did you know that your nearest and dearest might have to go to court to be able to make decisions...
Thinking of reviewing your legal affairs? Our private client services brochure is now online
Planning for the future while putting your legal and financial affairs in good order, is one way of ensuring peace of mind. At Hughes Solicitors in Heathfield, East Sussex we are here to help you prepare for later life, plan for your inheritance and manage your...
Government opens consultation on modernising lasting powers of attorney
The Ministry of Justice and the Office of the Public Guardian have opened a public consultation to gather input on how to modernise the system for making and monitoring lasting powers of attorney. More government services are being provided digitally and during the...
Video: Reasons for making a will when you have children
If you have children or dependants, making a will is not just about gifting wealth and personal possessions. You can use your will to outline any important decisions for your children’s future, such as making financial arrangements and deciding who will be their...
Video: Three good reasons for making a will
Making a will is one of those tasks which often gets put to one side. However, the coronavirus has shone a spotlight on our mortality and if anything should happen to you, we are sure you would want to make it as easy as possible for your family to deal with your...