What is difference between making a Will and an Estate Plan? We have provided a case study to help explain the difference. Firstly, a Little Background A client was concerned that at their death, their assets could be sold off by the surviving spouse during their remaining lifetime. A solicitor was instructed and a comprehensive testamentary trust was developed at some expense. … [Read more...]
WHAT RIGHTS DOES A STEP-CHILD HAVE TO YOUR ESTATE?
Scenario: Mrs Smith married Mr Smith who had two children from a former marriage. Mrs Smith had no natural children of her own. Mr Smith predeceased Mrs Smith with Mrs Smith dying several years later. Are the children of Mr Smith entitled to make a claim against the estate of the Mrs Smith? The children of Mr Smith became the legal step-children of Mrs Smith at the time of the … [Read more...]
Making Changes to your Will?
I drafted my own Will using a Will Kit a couple of years ago, but my circumstances have since changed and I want a few things altered. Is it okay if I just handwrite the changes in the margin and then sign and then date those changes? Is it okay? The simple answer to this question is no, absolutely not; but the complex answer to why this is the case is not so straightforward. Firstly, a … [Read more...]
