What is the Court of Protection?
Many of us go through life hoping we will always be able to manage our own affairs, and not wanting to consider the alternative that we, or a loved one, may one day suffer with ill health, or become unable…
HMRC investigates 2,000 families for IHT shortfall
By Rachel Timms The Times recently reported that more than 2,000 families are under scrutiny by HMRC this tax year for potentially underpaying inheritance tax when dealing with a person’s estate. HMRC opened 2,029 investigations between April and November 2023…
The practicalities surrounding Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs)
by Rebecca Edmonds You have prepared LPAs that appoint attorneys who will make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. But have you given your attorneys all the necessary information to put them in the best possible position to…
Inheritance Act Disputes
By Paul Currie, Head of Litigation There has been a 162% increase in the past 12 months in Inheritance Disputes in the High Court. These type of disputes may arise from issues with a Will, the fact no Will has…
Oral Assurances Are No Replacement for Properly Drafted Documents
Oral assurances are all well and good but, if they are not recorded in a professionally drafted document, how can it be proved that they were ever given? A farmer's son faced exactly that difficulty in a High Court dispute…
Powers of Attorney – This Is Why You Should Appoint an Independent Lawyer!
A case in which a son abused his power of attorney to squander £230,000 of his frail mother's money underlined the wisdom of employing an experienced lawyer, rather than a loved one to manage your finances if you lose the ability…
Ex-Members of Defunct Tennis Club Share £260,000 Payout
A great many people give generously of their time to the management of social and sporting clubs and such dedication is very often not rewarded, at least financially. In one uplifting case, however, the High Court opened the way for…
Property Owners – Don’t Lose Your Title Deeds!
Title deeds to property often lie mouldering and forgotten for many years, but the consequences of losing them can be severe. In a case that stands as a warning to the untidy, misplaced documents left a businessman facing an alleged…
Football Club Triumphs In Match Day Policing Costs Test Case
In a decision that will be greeted with joy by football clubs all over the country, the Court of Appeal has ruled that police forces are not entitled to charge them for keeping the peace in public areas around stadiums…
Court Upholds Restrictions on Holiday Homes
The old adage that 'an Englishman's home is his castle' is only partially true and the impact of planning law on a property owner's rights can be far-reaching – even extending to limiting the right of occupation. This is particularly…