What counts as a personal chattel when somebody dies, is everything they owned, could touch and move, and could go with them when they moved elsewhere on earth. When they died they obviously could not take them with them. Their family now faces an important question: … [Read more...]
Determining the Value of Property Fairly
Determining the value of property fairly, is an essential step in distributing the assets in a deceased estate. A building and the land on which it stands, is likely to be the most valuable possession the deceased left behind. We share the factors determining how much a … [Read more...]
The Public Trustee as Executor of a Will
When you make a will, one of the most important decisions is choosing your executor. This is the person who will carry out your wishes after you die. Appointing the Public Trustee as the executor of a will is one option that may be worth considering. Most people … [Read more...]
The Loose Gear in Your Estate
Did you ever wonder what will happen to the loose gear in your estate, after you pass on? One thing's for sure though, your heirs will scramble for the valuable items, unless you make your intentions clear. We describe how to avoid confusion, and make life simpler for … [Read more...]
Chattels Wills and Letters of Intention
A will is a legal document in which you confirm what you want to happen with your money, property, chattels, and any other possessions. There is no substitute for a legal will, unless you want your closest relative(s) to claim the lot. So why are we writing about … [Read more...]
How To Apply for UK Probate
After a person passes on from this world, they may leave a multiplicity of assets behind. Here we think of property and investments, as well as furniture, jewellery, and loose gear. Some else then has to pick up the pieces and pass these things on to their heirs. But … [Read more...]
Your Next of Kin Is Not De Facto Your Custodian
A next of kin has no legal status in Britain to make decisions on behalf of another, whether disabled or deceased. Yet how often don’t we hear people saying ‘So-and-so is my next of kin. They’ll take of my affairs when I am gone.’ However, the truth is your next of kin … [Read more...]
Making a Will – Is It a DIY Job in England and Wales?
Making a will is a smart thing to do if you want to save your survivors time and trouble. And perhaps, depending on your circumstances make sure your executor knows who you would like to inherit your wealth. It also provides an opportunity to legally manage any estate … [Read more...]
Late Roman Pearls Turn Up in Southampton Probate
Southampton has an interesting history, being on the Channel coast and open to invasion by the likes of Romans and Vikings. Buried hoards of their jewellery turn up from time to time to the delight of museums. This has spawned a generation of optimists pottering with … [Read more...]
