Providing an expansive range of personal legal services and proudly serving communities in West Cumbria for over 200 years, Brockbanks Solicitors, a family orientated firm with an impeccable reputation, are quite simply the perfect establishment to work with if you are having any difficulties with putting together a will.

They understand for many people that legal complexities can present some of the most challenging problems in life, which is why they pride themselves in offering support and advice to anyone that needs it, particularly given the current circumstances where it is more important than ever to feel at ease for both yourself and your loved ones.

News and Star: Josephine Walker, solicitor Josephine Walker, solicitor

As 61 per cent of people in the UK do not have a will, Josephine Walker, an accredited solicitor for the elderly and a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners at Brockbanks, explains why it is essential to make one.

“It is necessary for everybody to have a current valid will and for those people who have existing wills, then it is worth remembering to keep these under review.

This is because we hold a wills bank and there are many that were made prior to 2006/2007, where the transferable nil rate band between spouses was not available and therefore those wills were drafted in accordance with the legislation that was in force at the time”.

She added, “more recently the government have brought in the residential nil rate band where if a testator leaves their property to their children, then there is an extra relief that can be claimed, so it is always worth monitoring to ensure that you can make the most of these reliefs”.

Whether it is setting out your wishes in clear simple terms, explaining the rules of intestacy in detail, probate and estate administration support, legal safeguards for lack of mental capacity or advice on care home fees, their knowledgeable team will certainly have you covered.

News and Star: Lucy Fuggle, solicitor Lucy Fuggle, solicitor

Lucy Fuggle, another solicitor at Brockbanks who is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), specialising in wills, inheritance tax planning and the administration of estates and trusts, also highlighted some key points to consider.

“One thing to note in respect of wills drafted before the availability of the transferable nil rate band is that a lot of these include a discretionary trust. The new residential nil rate band does not apply to discretionary trusts and therefore it could be a relief that could be wasted.

Having a will is crucial so that you are not having to rely on the intestacy rules, which is particularly important for co-habiting couples as there is no provision for a co-habiting partner to receive anything from their deceased partner’s estate, which has recently been highlighted in TV dramas”.

She added, “particularly at this time where we have seen so many people who have been incapacitated and unable to manage their own financial affairs, creating a Lasting Power of Attorney is vitally important, especially if you are someone who is in business as well”.

Notably, the firm also offer specialist advice in business legal services such as setting up a company, buying or selling a business, commercial property, commercial litigation, employment solicitors and landlord solicitors.

So, if you are looking for expertise, guidance and professional tips on how to construct a will, then look no further than Brockbanks Solicitors.

For more information about wills and all legal services that they provide, visit: www.brockbanks.co.uk

Phone: 01496 556784

Email: info@brockbanks.co.uk

Facebook: Brockbanks Solicitors

Twitter: @BrockbanksLaw

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