Wills & Modern Relationships

Everyone should have a well written. A will ensures that your wishes are carried out. No will at all means that you die intestate. In these cases laws that govern the way in which your estate should be distributed come into effect. These laws do not take into consideration modern family relationships.

A solution to the problems posed by modern families can be overcome with good advice from experienced solicitors.

Andrew Way of Latimer Hinks Solicitors explains why you should choose a solicitor rather than a will writer to draft your will.

Growth in Contested Wills Could Mean Heartache for Families

This week the BBC2 documentary "Can't Take It With You" aired. A very interesting programme dealing with the problems of modern family relationships and distribution of assets.

Anne Elliott of Latimer Hinks comments on the programme in her blog "Can't Take It With You"

Further information
STEP - Society of Estate and Trust Practitioners -
STEP members (TEPs) provide expert advice on how to comply with the often complex law and tax rules surrounding trusts, estates and inheritance.


Anne Elliott and Andrew Way are full professional members

SFE - Solicitors for the Elderly -
Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE) is an independent, national organisation of lawyers, such as solicitors, barristers, and legal executives who are committed to providing the highest quality of legal advice for older and vulnerable people, their families and carers.

Many of our Private Client Team are members of SFE. Andrew is also Executive Director and Secretary of SFE

DIY Wills - Don't do it!

We live in a society where, to save money, we attempt tasks ourselves that really should be undertaken by professionals.

You may have seen (and possibly heard) about home improvement DIY disasters. People make a living from creating cartoons relating to such disasters, but have you ever considered what may happen if you attempted a DIY Will? A Will than can be purchased "off the shelf"?

Andrew Way, Partner at Latimer Hinks comments on a recent court case relating to DIY Wills.

Court Case Highlights Danger of DIY Wills

DIY Wills are a risky business. Problems can arise if the Will was not correctly signed and witnessed. Drafting mistakes can leave the Will open to misinterpretation and could possibly render the Will useless. Not taking care of details such as this can prove very costly and sometimes distressing for those left to deal with it.

So, to avoid your Will being deemed unlawful or challenged by family members, good instructions, advice and legal guidance should be taken.