Recent studies by the financial services sector have shown that in the past year, there was a 38 percent increase in demand for advice on inheritance tax planning. A combination of mortality concerns during the…
Important case highlights the complexities of probate law
One of our partners, Simon Thomas – ACTAPS member and specialist in contentious probate and trusts here at Hutchinson Thomas, was involved (successfully instructing the defendant) in a highly unusual and complex case which was…
What you need to know when dealing with probate property
Understanding the intricacies of probate can be a complicated business – particularly when applied to a property following the death of a loved one. What are the things to consider, and pitfalls to avoid, when…
From social media photos and iTunes to bitcoin — can you make provision for digital assets in your will?
In today’s tech-focused world, an increasing amount of our lives is taking place online. So, there is understandably a growing interest in how our digital assets may be dealt with when we pass away. Digital…
The ten most important reasons for making a will
Many people put off making a will until later in life, not wanting to think about the topic when they are still relatively young and in good health. However, there are many good reasons for…
Video-witnessed wills to be made legal
New government legislation, amending the Wills Act 1837, will state that remote witnessing of wills is to be made legal during the coronavirus pandemic. Here, Louise Williams, partner at Hutchinson Thomas, looks at the reasons…
Inheritance case ruling based on which parent died first
A recent inheritance case between two stepsisters based on which of their parents passed away first has been determined by the High Court, which by using a 1925 law, ruled that the younger parent legally outlived…
New law will assist families of missing loved ones
A new law is set to come into force on 31 July 2019 that will help families of loved ones who have been missing for 90 days or more. The Guardianship (Missing Persons) Act, known…
How can you safeguard your digital assets upon your death?
A recent case involving a widow who wanted access to her late husband’s digital data has once again highlighted the importance of keeping a will up to date. Rachel Thompson sought access to photos and…
DIY wills: are they really the easy option?
Do it yourself (DIY) wills have become more and more popular over recent years. Yet with their popularity has come a rise in contentious will and probate matters. The legal requirements of a will are…