Martin Smalley Solicitors Arnold, Nottingham - wills, probate, LPA's, conveyancing, matrimonial, child care, criminal law, employment, public funding

Confused about Probate? Dealing with the legal and financial paperwork at such an emotional time can be daunting for those left behind. Even in the simplest of estates there is a surprising amount of correspondence to deal with. Hopefully there will be a properly drafted Will in place appointing Executors. If not, we can provide you with clear advice on what needs to be done and guide you through the bewildering process of obtaining probate.

If there is no Will, then Letters of Administration need to be obtained; again we can advise you who will be appropriate personal representatives and what other steps need to be taken.

If you decide you would like us to deal with this we can provide you with a fixed quote for obtaining a Grant of Probate, Letters of Administration or give you an estimate of our likely fees if we are instructed to deal with the whole of the probate including dealing with the deceased's tax affairs.

Deed of Variation

There are situations where we can prepare a Deed of Variation. A Deed of Variation varies the terms of the Will of the person who has passed away. Alternatively if there is no Will, it can be used to vary the 'Intestacy' provision. It is often used to reduce Inheritance Tax but can be used to redirect a legacy down the generations (say, to grandchildren), again to avoid or to reduce any Inheritance Tax liability.

We are happy to help you if you need advice on reducing Inheritance Tax or in relation to the preparation of a Deed of Variation.

Other lifetime planning

Severance of Joint Tenancy If you currently own your own home with a spouse or partner, there may be some benefit in altering the way in which you hold the legal estate (own it). You may wish to leave a share of the property to someone else for example children or other family members. We can provide you with a fixed quotation and guidance. Please contact us for more information.

Elderly Client Issues Confused about funding if you have to go into care and concerned about your assets being used to fund your care? We are more than happy to help you negotiate this potential minefield. Please contact our friendly team to receive practical, easy to understand advice that could save you a fortune!