Someone who wants to ensure that his property is dealt with as he wishes when he dies needs to make a Will.

If he does not make one, the law of intestacy will dictate how his estate is to be shared amongst next-of-kin. So anyone living with a partner being unmarried, needs to recognise that even if they have lived together for perhaps many years, the survivor is not entitled to inherit. The law does not grant rights of inheritance to those who cohabit.

Anyone who has a child should consider whether a guardian should be appointed by Will to record who is to have responsibility for looking after the child, also whether provision should be made for the child.

Inheritance tax planning may be a factor to be borne in mind when a Will is to be prepared.

It is sensible to take legal advice by someone:

• who wishes to set up a trust by Will, for example to provide for young children
• domiciled abroad
• who owns foreign property
• who is in business

It is important to review the terms of a Will when an important event takes place, for example marriage (which usually has the effect of revoking the Will), separation or divorce which may result in the Will becoming inadequate.

The cost of preparing a Will varies depending upon the length of the Will and any complexities.

Our fees in relation to Probate work are charged on an hourly basis currently £285 per hour.

In cases where the Inheritance Tax threshold is not exceeded it is generally possible to give an accurate confirmation of the number of hours that will be needed to complete the work

Where the Inheritance Tax threshold is exceeded and there is Inheritance Tax to pay an estimate of the number of hours will be provided but this could vary if, for example, HM Revenue and Customs raise queries which have to be dealt with and in these instances the client will be provided with regular updates on the total costs. Estimates may have to be revised.

All costs attract VAT at the going rate which is currently 20%.

In all cases there will be disbursements payable for probate court fees as set by HMRC and also fees for sworn statements and exhibits.

Please telephone us on 0208 952 8882 or email us at lesley.williams@lawlegal.co.uk or naomi.yeshua@lawlegal.co.uk to make an appointment.