Wills and Probate

Making Wills, obtaining Grants of Probate and making Powers of Attorney are a key part of our work as a family law firm. They are, however, only a part. Much of what we do involves a continuing role in the affairs of the families who come to us for advice which extends beyond the formal documents and to their tax and other financial concerns.

Wills

It is vital to have at least a simple will ensuring that your wishes are clear on your death and that the correct people benefit. Wills should be reviewed every few years. With a solicitor who knows your affairs it can be a quick and simple job. We have written a straightforward guide called Why you should make a Will which you may find helpful.

Probate

When someone dies, no one can access their assets. Official authority is required . If there is a will setting out the deceased's wishes and appointing an Executor, Probate can be obtained. If there is no Will, the rules of intestacy apply, laying down how the assets will be distributed (often not in accordance with the deceased's wishes, hence the need to make a valid will). An Administrator is appointed. The Executor or Administrator collects in all the assets, pays the debts and tax and distributes the net balance. All this is normally carried out by solicitors.

Lasting Power of Attorney

Your Will ensures that your wishes are carried out after your death. What if you are still alive but unable through illness or incapacity to manage your own affairs? Read about Lasting Powers of Attorney.

Solicitors for the Elderly

Felix Appelbe and Helen Freely have passed the exams set by Solicitors for the Elderly, an organisation of lawyers specialising in legal advice for older people.

Although many of our clients in this department are older people, we advise many who are not so old and give consultative tax advice for families. We administer a wide range of estates both small and large for people all over England, and also as agents for others.  For example, we have been appointed Official Solicitors for the Public Trustee of Western Australia, an area as large as Western Europe.

Whilst much of Probate work is to do with processes - record-keeping, form-filling etc - we remember also that it is very much to do with people and people who are at stressful time in their lives. It is worth quoting in this context a letter which we recently received from a client:

"Thank you for your letter advising me that the final sum relating to my late wife's estate has been paid....and that the various matters have been concluded.

In closing, may I say how much my niece and I have appreciated the courtesy and care we have received.....in guiding us through what was a most difficult time. Thank you for all the help we have received from you. It came at a most stressful time for me."
 

To discuss your own situation or to make an appointment, contact one of the lawyers in the Private Client department, Felix Appelbe or Helen Freely on 020 7242 7000 or use the Contact Request Form.

© Ambrose Appelbe 2004-2008
This web site contains general information only and does not constitute legal advice. You should take suitable advice as to your specific circumstances. Ambrose Appelbe accepts no responsibility and disclaims all liability in relation to such information.

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