Will Making

Many people delay making a Will, almost as if they think doing so will bring them bad luck. Yet it is a task which, when done, brings peace of mind. You know that, should the worst happen, your affairs are in order and that your property and money will go where you want it to go. It is not only the elderly who should make a Will – it is equally important for a young couple who may need (amongst other things) to appoint guardians for any minor children.

When it is created, your Will should be reviewed every few years. Not only can the law and tax rules change but so might your personal and financial circumstances.

At Burningham & Brown we have long and comprehensive experience in drafting of Wills and advising on inheritance tax mitigation, and we will be pleased to advise on the best ways of dealing with your affairs so as to ensure that all your wishes are carried out. We can produce a Will that is clear and concise, and which you will readily understand. Your affairs will always be discussed in the strictest of confidence and we offer a free safe custody service for the original Will. The Partners in the firm are willing to act as Executors if so requested.

Estate Administration

Following a death, we can deal with all of the administrative tasks involved in obtaining a Grant of Probate (or Letters of Administration where no Will was left) on behalf of the Executors. This involves the securing of assets, preparation of the necessary tax and probate papers, liaising with asset holders, family and other professionals to allow distribution of the Estate to pass as quickly and efficiently as possible to the chosen beneficiaries under the terms of the deceased’s Will.

Having suffered bereavement it is often a difficult time for close family relatives to deal with these complex matters. Burningham & Brown can help by dealing with the administration of an Estate or any continuing Trusts which helps alleviate the pressure on those persons involved.

As an established family practice we have considerable experience in these matters, and our aim is always to deal with the client in a helpful, sympathetic and efficient manner at what is inevitably a very difficult time.

Where an Estate includes a family home, and the Executors or the family decide to part with the property, our Conveyancing Department can deal with the sale.

Lasting Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection

A Lasting Power of Attorney can be used by you to appoint someone you trust as your ‘attorney’ to make decisions on your behalf in relation to your financial affairs or personal welfare should the need arise. Sadly some people become mentally incapable of managing their affairs and a deputy has to be appointed. We offer advice and assistance in dealing with both Lasting Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection applications.