Wills, Trusts and Probate

Advising on the validity of Wills, and whether they have been executed so as to satisfy the requirements of the Wills Act 1837
Formalities and equitable bars such as undue influence and testamentary incapacity
Advising as to the interpretation and effect of a Will.
Advising as to the effect of the intestacy rules where a person dies intestate
Non-contentious probate advice and proceedings in the Registry
Administration of estates: how an estate should be distributed, as to the powers and duties of personal representatives and trustees in administering estates, and the remedies of beneficiaries if a personal representative is in breach of trust.
Advising trustees as to the limits of their powers, e.g. as imposed by the rule against self-dealing.
Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, including who may make such a claim, the time for claiming and the evidence needed either to support or to oppose a claim and advising as to the type and value of awards which the court may make.
Advising on the appropriate steps if a beneficiary is difficult or impossible to find
The impact of Inheritance Tax on estate planning
Deeds of Variation
Interpretation and advice as to the meaning and/or the effect of intended or existing express trust schemes for settlors, trustees, and beneficiaries.
Court of Protection – including relevant aspects of mental health law, family law, community care law and social housing law