Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning

Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning

Wills

A Will is one of the most important documents that you will ever sign. It will determine who will ultimately receive your worldly goods when you are gone. More importantly it can ensure your loved ones are provided for and protected.
If you die without a Will, the Rules of Intestacy determine how your assets are divided which may mean that those you would have wanted to benefit either receive much less or nothing at all.

A Will allows you to:

  • Specify which people or charities you wish to leave money or specific items to.
  • Name people you trust to act as your Executors.
  • Appoint guardians to look after your children.
  • Minimise the impact of Inheritance Tax.
  • Specify your funeral wishes.
  • Ensure your business or farm succession.
  • Use a Trust to preserve assets for future generations.

Wills should be reviewed at least every five years to ensure that they still adequately provide for your wishes towards your Estate.

You should always update your Will after any significant change in your circumstances such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children or buying or selling property.

Whilst preparing a Will does not always have to be a complex procedure there are certain steps that need to be taken to ensure that the Will is valid. Mistakes, which are easy to make, can render the Will invalid.

What Does a Will Cost?

The costs will vary depending on the complexity of your Estate and the requirements to affect your wishes. However we do offer a fixed rate for very simple Wills. Contact our Probate Department for a personalised estimate.

See our Price List for Norwich and our Price List for Great Yarmouth

Trusts & Estate Planning

Trusts are used to minimise the tax liability of a person’s Estate and to preserve capital. A trust is simply a legal arrangement under which “Trustees” hold assets for the benefit of one or more “beneficiaries.”

Trusts can be used for a number of purposes, for example:

  • Making the best possible use of Inheritance tax reliefs and exemptions
  • Dispose of a business in a tax efficient way.
  • Provide for your wife or husband after your death while protecting the interests of your children.
  • Protect the inheritance of young children.
  • Give assets away during your lifetime but retain control of them.
  • Income Tax savings can be made.
  • Protecting assets against care-home fees.

Call Gordon Dean Solicitors on 01603 767671 or contact us for more information.

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