Protecting Your Assets and Your Beneficiaries

When you consider the future, it is natural to want the people you love to be safe and well cared for. Estate planning goes beyond simply having a Will. It is about two equally important things; protecting your assets from outside risks and protecting your beneficiaries from challenges they may not be ready to handle. […]

The Shadow of Delusion – Ginger v Mickleburgh [2026]

Testamentary Capacity & Mental Illness The recent ruling in Ginger & Ors v Mickleburgh & Ors [2026] EWHC 100 (Ch) demonstrates that even a professionally drafted will can be challenged on the grounds of testamentary capacity. Decided in January 2026, this lengthy dispute emphasises the importance of applying the ‘Golden Rule’ and highlights the need […]

Why Your Home’s EPC isn’t Just a Tick-Box Exercise

If you are planning to buy or sell a home this year, you may have noticed that the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) has suddenly moved from the back of the sales pack to the very forefront of the conversation. In early 2026, the property market reached a tipping point. With the introduction of the government’s […]

Helping Your Child Buy A Property

The ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ is firmly established among the top ten lenders in the UK. Once seen as a leg-up for first-time buyers, it is now a significant source of support for those who already own a property. Recent market data from Barclays shows a significant shift: nearly 20% of ‘second-steppers’ now rely […]

Do I Need a Trust?

In the legal world, there’s a common saying: “A Will is for the deceased, but a Trust is for the living.” If you followed our advice earlier this year, you likely feel better about making a Will. It provides the crucial foundation to ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes, rather than defaulting […]

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 […]