Until now, the general approach has been that a company cannot claim privilege against its own...
Leaving matters “to chance” can create unnecessary distress and potential tax costs for your family. A well-drafted Will is therefore one way to give you peace of mind and essential to ensuring that your wishes concerning your estate are carried out.
It ensures that the people dealing with your affairs and (if appropriate) looking after your children are the ones you have chosen.
In addition, it can provide substantial tax savings, protect assets for future generations and make certain that your estate passes to those whom you intend.
Every person should have an up-to-date Will, which should be reviewed, even if not then updated, every 3 – 5 years as well as every time your circumstances change (for instance moving house, entering a new relationship, losing a loved one or starting a family). There is also a particular need to seek legal advice if you have a business, assets with an overseas element to them, have made gifts during your lifetime or have an interest in a trust.
Our team has many years of experience in Will drafting, estate planning and providing inheritance tax advice. We have particular expertise in high value estates and specialise in the strategic use of Wills and trusts for tax planning, asset protection and succession planning in family businesses.
We advise clients on mitigating inheritance tax and capital gains tax as well as the available exemptions and reliefs such as Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief.
We also welcome working with your existing professional advisors to achieve a result that will be specifically tailored to your needs and circumstances.