Wills

Many people are reluctant to think about making a Will, perhaps thinking they don’t have enough money or property to make it worthwhile, or simply putting it off until they are older. However, whatever your age or financial situation, you should consider making Will to ensure your loved ones are protected and provided for after you die.

Failure to think ahead at an early opportunity can, unfortunately, lead to problems for families and other dependents, particularly if you pass away suddenly and/or while you are young.

We help our clients put in place robust and appropriate Wills which match their wishes. We work with clients over the long term to review Wills regularly, particularly if there are any changes in their personal or financial circumstances – such as marriage, divorce or children. 

We prepare Wills which can help you:

• Choose exactly how your property and possessions will be shared between your loved ones
• Ensure that your partner or spouse is provided for
• Choose who should act as guardians for any children
• Provide for dependents
• Set out funeral wishes
• Prevent additional upset and confusion for your loved ones on your death and decide who you would like to wind up your affairs

Probate & Estate Administration

When a person dies, it usually falls to their closest relatives or friends to deal with the estate. Where the deceased leaves a valid Will, Executors will have been appointed to take on this task. Where there is no Will, a family member of the deceased will need to apply to become an Administrator.

Our range of services include:

• Obtaining a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration
• Full administration of the deceased’s estate
• Calculation and payment of Inheritance Tax
• Trustee services

Our friendly and sensitive team of lawyers understand how upsetting this process is likely to be for you. As well as expert advice we provide practical support and we hope we can make this difficult time a little easier for you

Trusts

Trusts are a way of protecting and preserving assets such as money, property, and personal belongings, for your loved ones either during your lifetime or after you pass away.

We can advise on all types of trust and their benefits, including:

• Ringfencing assets
• Providing for children under 18
• Providing for loved ones who lack mental capacity
• Passing money and property on with conditions
• Setting aside money for your care
• Reducing the value of your estate for the purposes of Inheritance Tax

We can also provide advice on any associated tax implications and procedural matters (such as trustees’ duties) so you can make an informed decision about whether trusts are right for you.

Get in touch with our private client solicitors in Horsham today 

To speak to a member of our team about our private client services, please give us a call at our offices in Horsham, West Sussex, or email info@lewisdenley.com.