Estate planning for the future is very important, although we often all leave things too late. It is difficult to place a value on peace of mind. We act for clients at in Ilford, Wanstead, Redbridge, Barking and Dagenham, Hertford, Essex and Greater London, and indeed nationally. Our specialist private client team is based out of our Barking, office.
Here are just some of the things we can advise you on:
Lasting Power of Attorney: In 1985, the Enduring Powers of Attorney Act made it possible to appoint a person of your own choosing to administer your affairs in the event of mental incapacity. The Mental Capacity Act replaced Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) with a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) - which came into effect in 2007.
Long Term Care Planning: It's hard to imagine not being able to live in your own home, and look after yourself. Planning at the right time to make sure any care you may need in the future is covered without having to sell your home, is important for some people. Find out more about the rules about paying for a permanent care home place.
Living Wills: See our section on Living Wills.
Inheritance Tax Planning: When trying to minimise the inheritance tax payable on your estate by your beneficiaries, there are many different options, depending on the circumstances. Subject to your particular situation, the size of your estate and various other factors, we can provide you with a list of options and their pros and cons.
Trusts: A Trust is a fund which contains assets that are controlled by you and/or a nominated third party for the benefit of a specific individual(s). They are governed by complex legal regulations and separate tax rules. A Trust can be set up at any time during the lifetime of an individual to become operative immediately or following their death. Find out more about what a Trust can do for you.
Guardians: If you have young children, you should consider appointing guardians to take care of them if you die while they are still young. Even if you have "god parents" we all know that the choice of god parent is sometimes an emotional decision made a specific time. This is usually done whilst making your Will.
