Wills, Trusts & Probate

The Importance of having a Will | Don't leave it to chance

At Sills & Betteridge, our Wills, Trusts and Probate team consistently emphasise the importance of having a valid Will in place. A professionally and independently drafted Will ensures that your estate is managed according to your wishes after your death, providing clarity and peace of mind for your loved ones. The critical need for this is currently being highlighted by a Radio 4 series, Shadow World: The Grave Robbers, which shows the serious complications that can arise when someone passes away without a Will. Award-winning investigative reporter Sue Mitchell reveals how gangs operating in the UK are illegally taking assets from people who die without a recent will.

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The Final Act of Ken Dodd: What It Teaches Us About Inheritance Tax and Estate Planning

Estate planning is a vital component of financial management, especially for individuals with substantial assets. One of the most significant considerations in this process is Inheritance Tax (IHT), which can substantially reduce the value of an estate passed on to beneficiaries. The story of Sir Ken Dodd, the famous British comedian, provides a compelling example of how timely legal decisions can dramatically influence the tax implications of an estate.

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It is never too early to make a Will

Former One Direction star Liam Payne's untimely death highlights the importance of estate planning. Probate documents show that with a £24 million fortune and no Will, Liam's estate will be handled according to the intestacy rules. This means his son will inherit everything, and his ex-partner Cheryl Tweedy will manage the estate alongside another individual. However, this might not reflect Liam's wishes, particularly regarding his partner, Kate Cassidy, and other family members.

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