June 2024 | Curtis Parkinson
Personal Liability as Executor or Administrator

Mistakes Executors and Administrators Must Avoid

Losing a loved one is never easy. And when you’re named as the Executor in their Will (or the court appoints you as Administrator if there’s no Will), the burden of settling their estate can feel overwhelming. The responsibilities are significant, and the legal implications are real.  Mistakes during this process can lead to personal […]

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Equity Release in Retirement

Equity release continues to gain popularity among older UK homeowners, often due to rising property values and the need for additional income in retirement. It allows them to tap into the value (equity) they’ve built up in their homes without selling. But it’s a significant financial decision with legal and financial implications. For instance, it […]

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Bank of Mum and Dad: A Blessing or Inheritance Curse?

The dream of homeownership is increasingly challenging, prompting many parents to become a “Bank of Mum and Dad” and offer financial support. While generous, these financial gifts can become an inheritance curse, leading to tax issues, family disputes, or resentment among siblings. This impacts not only future inheritance but also emotional well-being and fairness. Presumption […]

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Can I Keep My Will Secret?

Usually, a Will become public after a Grant of Probate is issued. However, to protect the “dignity and standing” of the late Queen, the High Court ordered Prince Philip’s Will to be kept secret for 90 years. Since then, following the judgment of the President of the Family Division in the case of Prince Philip’s […]

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What Happens if an Executor Dies?

The unexpected death of an executor can introduce a significant level of stress and emotional burden into the probate process, particularly during an already emotionally challenging time. However, what happens if an executor dies, including when the death occurs, can significantly impact how the estate is managed moving forward. Understanding the Administration of Estates Act […]

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Navigating Probate Delays

The loss of a loved one is a difficult time, and the legal process of probate can add an extra layer of stress. Probate, the court-supervised process of administering a deceased person’s estate, can often be long and complicated, leading to unwelcome delays during an already emotionally challenging period. Although there have been some improvements, […]

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Safeguarding Your Investment by Extending Your Lease

Leasehold properties are a common form of home ownership in the UK, especially for flats and apartments. However, a lease has a fixed term, and as this term gets shorter, the property’s value may decrease. This is where lease extensions come into play, allowing leaseholders to extend their ownership rights and safeguard their investments. Benefits […]

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