The Executor’s Dilemma: Can You Challenge the Will?

In this blog, we explore a common concern for executors: whether a Will is truly valid. We look at the legal concepts involved and the potential risks an executor might face. Imagine a typical situation: someone is named as an executor in a Will, but as they review the document or consider how it was […]

Keeping Your LPA Current

How to Change or Replace Your Attorneys A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) isn’t just a “set it and forget it” document. As life evolves—marriages happen, friendships change, and people move away—the people you chose five years ago to look after your health or finances might not be the right fit today. If you are […]

Freehold vs. Leasehold: What Are You Actually Buying?

However, many buyers don’t realise that they aren’t always buying the land the house is on. In England and Wales, property ownership mainly falls into two categories: Freehold and Leasehold. Understanding the differences can really help you avoid unexpected costs and potential legal issues down the line. Freehold: You Are the Master of Your Castle […]

Write or Review Your Will This Year…

The New Year is a great time for renewal and fresh starts. It’s a perfect moment to set new resolutions and organise our lives. While many focus on goals like fitness or saving money, one genuinely meaningful resolution is to consider your family’s future—review or create your Will. Don’t delay; acting now can bring peace […]

Why Joint Tenancy Might Catch You Off Guard

When you buy property with a partner, many couples opt for joint tenancy because it appears simple. While it is a popular choice for married couples, it also involves significant, often hidden, risks that may not be immediately apparent. These risks can lead to complications if a relationship changes or if one owner dies unexpectedly. […]

Buying A Property Together

Buying a property with a partner, family member, or friend is an exciting milestone, but it also involves making essential legal decisions. One of the most significant choices you will face is deciding on your legal ownership structure and understanding how it influences your equity. This decision not only affects your rights while you own […]

Do You Need a Will to Decide Your Funeral?

Putting off making a Will is common (and understandable), but this postponement causes unnecessary difficulties for your family. Moreover, while you can include funeral details—such as cremation, burial, the type of service, and music—in your Will, relying solely on it for planning involves risks. A Will often comes too late to legally determine arrangements, but […]

The Crucial Cover: Why You Must Insure Your Property at Contract Exchange

Securing Your Investment The process of buying a house is complex, and therefore, it involves many legal steps. As a result, one essential requirement that demands careful attention is having buildings insurance from the moment you exchange contracts. This crucial stage is often overlooked or postponed, yet it is vital for protecting what is likely […]

A Line of Sight? The Perils of an Invalid Will

Lessons from Coady v Coady Writing a Will is one of the most important things you’ll ever do. It allows you to decide who inherits your property, making sure your final wishes are followed. But simply signing a piece of paper isn’t enough. A Will must strictly follow legal rules. These rules, known as the […]

Three Steps to Sell Your Property Smarter and Faster

Selling a property is an exciting venture, but the legal process can quickly become complicated and slow down if you’re not prepared. Selling a house in the UK typically takes between 3 and 7 months from listing to completion. However, with proactive planning, you can achieve a faster, smoother, and less stressful sale. By being […]

Taking Care of Vulnerable Loved Ones After You Die

It’s a deeply personal and often challenging topic: how do you ensure financial stability and a good quality of life for a vulnerable or disabled loved one after you pass away? For many, leaving an inheritance is an important part of their legacy. However, a simple lump sum gift could unintentionally harm a vulnerable beneficiary […]

‘My Spouse Can Sort It…’ Debunking Myths About Powers of Attorney

Clients often hesitate to establish Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs). Yet, these crucial legal documents are vital for future planning. However, many people often misunderstand them and believe common myths about them. LPAs enable you to appoint one or more trusted individuals, known as your “Attorneys,” to act on your behalf if you lose mental […]

Buying or Selling a Home with Solar Panels

With 1.6 million homes now fitted with solar panels, it comes as no surprise that clients often ask whether solar panels affect the sale or purchase of a property. Undoubtedly, solar panels are a valuable asset, providing energy savings and environmental benefits. However, when relocating, they pose a unique set of legal and conveyancing challenges. […]

Paw-sitive Planning in Your Will

Ensuring Your Pet’s Future We all regard our pets as family. They offer steadfast companionship, a listening ear, and unconditional love. Yet, although they occupy a priceless place in our hearts, UK law legally treats pets as personal property—akin to furniture or jewellery. This legal classification means your beloved dog, cat, parrot, or horse cannot […]

Amending Your Will

Are Codicils a Good Idea? Life constantly changes, and sometimes your last Will needs updating to reflect new circumstances. When you need to make a minor change to an existing Will, you might consider using a codicil. But are they really a good idea? A codicil is a separate legal document that officially amends, rather […]

The Risks of Private Promises in Your Will

A Cautionary Tale from Lorenz v Caruana Secret trusts, a unique and longstanding feature of English law, continue to spark debate and present complex challenges in estate planning. These trusts allow a person to leave property to a secret trustee in their Will, with a private, unwritten understanding that the property will benefit another person, […]

A Checklist for Making a Will

Thinking about your Will may not seem glamorous, but it is essential for protecting your loved ones’ future. A Will is a legal document that explains how you share your assets and who will care for your minor children and estate. Without one, intestacy laws decide these matters, and they might not align with your […]

Equity Release: Unlocking Home Wealth Responsibly

Equity release continues to grow in popularity among older homeowners in the UK, driven by increasing property values and the desire for extra retirement income. This option allows homeowners, typically aged 55 and over, to access the equity in their home without moving. They can opt to receive a tax-free lump sum or regular income, […]

Beyond the Notary Stamp

In an increasingly globalised world, a simple document—such as a degree certificate, power of attorney, or birth certificate—can become a complex legal obstacle when it needs to be used abroad. The requirement for an apostille or consular legalisation aims to prevent fraud and safeguard the integrity of public records across borders. For both individuals and […]

Exchanging and Completing on the Same Day

The Risks and Rewards of a Speedy Sale In the world of property transactions, the process of exchanging contracts and completing the sale is usually a two-step process. First, there’s the exchange, where legally binding contracts are signed, and a deposit is paid. Then, there’s completion, the day the keys are handed over and the […]