Many solicitors in Wales and England will say a will is only valid if (a) it is in writing, and (b) the person signed it, or another person in their presence acting under their directions. Finally, the signature must also be attested by two witnesses who are both … [Read more...]
Is Hoarding the Same Thing in the Minds of Children
Most research into hoarding focuses on adults. As far as untidy teens are concerned their ‘collections’ are signs of rebellious minds. And as for kids, well they are too young for that. But are they really not old enough? What follows may surprise you. A child does … [Read more...]
New Probate Fee Dropped Is This a Public Victory?
We were delighted to see Justice Secretary Robert Buckland give up on the idea of a scaled probate fee. The current administration had been pushing for the thinly-disguised stealth tax since 2016, and was facing a mounting wave of opposition. The top-end fee was … [Read more...]
Can a Deathbed Gift Override the Rules of Intestacy?
Picture the scene of a person receiving their last rites, as physicians confirm they will pass away soon. Relatives gather around the deathbed paying their last respects. A stranger enters, rushes forward, and whispers something. The dying person’s eyes open and they … [Read more...]
Social Workers Should Manage Prejudice Before Intervening
The director of hoarding support group Clouds End, Heather Matuozzo believes social workers should put their own prejudices to bed before they can help compulsive hoarders effectively. They must confront and deal with their own problems first, she says. Or else they … [Read more...]
How to Renounce the Executorship of a Will You Don’t Want
It may sound irresponsible to many, but a surprising number of executors don’t know they are nominated in wills. Until, that is they discover they are lumped with the task of finalizing the estate, and distributing the assets as the will dictates. They may find … [Read more...]
Applying for Probate What You May Need to Know
A death in the family is a distressing event. It leaves them scrambling for advice regarding what to do with the deceased’s possessions. This is what probate is in England and Wales, although that’s just a legal term for sorting their things out. When someone dies, … [Read more...]
How Memories Are a Barrier to Hoarders Releasing Objects
Well over a million people living in the UK are significant hoarders. It is one thing to keep things for sentimental value. However, when the collection starts affecting lifestyle then perhaps welfare should intervene. Scientists at University of Bath have been … [Read more...]
Would the Law of Succession Apply to a Treasure Trove?
The law of succession requires the assets of a deceased person be distributed among their heirs according the rules of succession. This principle may only be ignored where they left a legal will, and then only in the case of assets clearly included in the will. This … [Read more...]
The Costs Associated with Probate in England and Wales
Probate, in headline terms is proving a will is genuine, valid, and the most recent one: And authorizing an executor to implement it. We provide general information on the topic. However, if you are unsure you should always pay for professional advice. We share the cost … [Read more...]
