Wills, Probate & Lasting Power of Attorney
At Daniel Taylor Solicitors, we offer comprehensive services for drafting wills, managing probate, and setting up Lasting Powers of Attorney. Our experienced team provides personalised advice and support to ensure that your legal affairs are handled efficiently and in accordance with your wishes. Contact us today to discuss your needs and how we can assist you.
Wills
Why it is important to seek legal professionals when drafting a will
Drafting a will is a crucial step in ensuring that your estate is distributed according to your wishes after your death. Seeking legal advice ensures that your will is valid, complies with current laws, and addresses all necessary details. Professional solicitors can help avoid common pitfalls, such as ambiguities or legal loopholes, which could lead to disputes or complications for your heirs.
What a will should include
A well-drafted will should include key elements such as your full name and address, the appointment of an executor to manage your estate, a detailed list of your assets and liabilities, and clear instructions on how you wish your assets to be distributed. Additionally, it should name any guardians for minor children and specify any charitable donations or specific bequests.
How it should be stored
Your will should be stored in a safe and secure location. Many people choose to keep their will with their solicitor, who can ensure it is safeguarded and easily accessible when needed. Alternatively, you may store it in a secure location at home, such as a safe, or use a secure storage service offered by banks or legal firms.
The process for creating a will using solicitors
To create a will with a solicitor, begin with an initial consultation where you discuss your wishes and provide details about your assets. The solicitor will draft the will according to your instructions, ensuring all legal requirements are met. Once completed, the will is reviewed with you for accuracy and then signed in the presence of witnesses. The solicitor will provide advice on how to store the will and may offer additional services, such as updating it in the future.
Probate
What is probate?
Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. It involves validating the will, settling any debts, and distributing the remaining assets according to the will or, if there is no will, according to intestacy laws.
What does a lawyer do when handling probate?
When handling probate, a solicitor manages various tasks including applying for a grant of probate, assessing and valuing the estate, paying any outstanding debts or taxes, and distributing the assets to beneficiaries. They ensure that all legal and administrative duties are carried out in accordance with the law and help navigate any complexities that arise.
How long does it take?
The probate process can vary in duration depending on the complexity of the estate. On average, it may take between six months to a year to complete. Factors such as the size of the estate, the number of beneficiaries, and any disputes can affect the timeline.
What is the process and how to instruct Daniel Taylor Solicitors?
To begin the probate process with a solicitor, you will need to provide them with a copy of the will, details of the deceased’s assets and liabilities, and any other relevant information. The solicitor will apply for the grant of probate, manage the administration of the estate, and keep you informed throughout the process. You can instruct Daniel Taylor Solicitors by contacting us and arranging a consultation to discuss your needs.
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself due to illness, incapacity, or other reasons.
What does a Lasting Power of Attorney cover?
There are two types of LPA: Property and Financial Affairs, which covers decisions related to your finances and property, and Health and Welfare, which covers decisions about your healthcare and personal well-being. You can choose different individuals for each type or the same person for both.
Who would needs a Lasting Power of Attorney?
Anyone who wishes to ensure that their financial and personal affairs are managed according to their wishes in case of future incapacity should consider setting up an LPA. It is particularly important for individuals with ongoing health concerns, those approaching old age, or anyone who wants to plan ahead for potential future needs.
Why it’s important to have one drafted by a solicitor
Having an LPA drafted by a solicitor ensures that the document is legally sound and accurately reflects your wishes. Solicitors provide guidance on the implications of the LPA, help choose appropriate attorneys, and ensure that the LPA is properly registered with the Office of the Public Guardian. This professional support helps prevent errors that could invalidate the LPA or lead to disputes later on.
Wills, Probate and LPA Process with Us
Free Advice
We’ll assess your needs free of charge and give you an idea of the likely elements you’ll need our help with. We’ll also provide any fees up front.
Drafting
We will then proceed with a thorough discussion of the requirements with you, gathering further information and wishes
Delivery
We will discuss timescales and dates for final delivery of the items and arrange for reviews of the initial document drafts and any changes required.
Completion
Once we have completed all of the necessary paperwork and tasks required, we will send you all paperwork you require on completion.
