Valente McCombie & Hunter - Edinburgh and Lothians Solicitors
Wills
Many of us are reluctant to make a Will because, quite frankly, we are uncomfortable talking about death. However, if you don't make a Will, you run the very real risk of having your estate pass to someone you didn't intend it to.
Although there are lots of issues to consider, the right advice can make drawing-up a Will a remarkably easy process. And you can be sure your family will be grateful that you took the time now, rather than leaving it too late.
At VMH LLP, we'll help you through the process, offering advice and taking details in a friendly and straightforward manner.
Executries
The death or incapacity of a loved one is the most difficult of all life's issues. Which is why, at VMH LLP, we make sure all the relevant legal issues are dealt with sympathetically and efficiently.
Winding up an estate after a death can be complex, particularly if there is no Will. Our experience, however, makes the task simple and straightforward and, by becoming responsible for the division of the estate, we can ensure that everyone feels they are being fairly treated.
A similarly sensitive service is offered to those clients with a relative who is incapable of looking after their own affairs. Here, our long experience and knowledgeable advice will ensure that all relevant financial matters are in order and assist in decisions such as the selection of a suitable nursing home.
Guardianship
It is always difficult to deal with issues of old age and infirmity of our loved ones. As we all age, some things get beyond us and for that reason we frequently advise clients to consider making Powers of Attorney. The biggest benefit of such a document is that it doesn't take away the power of the granter to do what they wish and are able but merely adds someone else on to help them or do the things they fell less able to do.
If, sadly, it is too late for a Power of Attorney to be granted, because the person no longer has capacity, we do arrange for the appointment of Financial and Welfare Guardians and can provide a full management service for such incapacitated clients.
Taxation
We do complete Income Tax Returns and advise on Capital Gains Tax in personal client affairs and provide advice on Inheritance Tax issues. Part of this work involves the management of Trusts which can be undertaken for pre agreed fees.
On 9th October 2007, the UK Government announced a major change to Inheritance Tax [IHT]. Basically, if on the death of the second to die of a married or civilly partnered couple, it is ascertained that on the death of their predeceasing spouse or civil partner, that first to die's Nil Rate Band for Inheritance Tax was not utilised, then the Nil Rate Band of tax due on the second death is doubled at the rate of the Nil Rate Band applicable a the date of death of the second to die.
To help explain this if Mr Black dies on 4 April 2008 leaving his whole estate to his Civil Partner Mr Brown, that is an exempt transfer for IHT. That means that his Nil Rate Band (£300,000) is lost. If Mr Brown then dies on 10 April 2010, his Nil Rate Band becomes £700,000, being his own of £350,000 and that of his predeceasing Civil Partner uprated to the level applicable at the time of Mr Brown's death.
The same holds true for married people.
Testimonials
"I would like to thank you for your kind attention during the winding up of my Mum's estate, and previous to that, your invaluable support and advice during our first meeting, resolving issues at the time of my Dad's death. For this, I will always be in your debt and eternally grateful." DMcL, Scottish Borders
"I would like to take this opportunity to record my gratitude for the competent and helpful manner in which my aunt's Estate has been handled by VMH and their Associates"
" Thanks for all your help in the past few months. I know my sister has really valued your discussions and advice"
"I've no plans for immediate permanent return to Scotland but hope that should I require legal assistance at some time in the future, your services will be available. You've always handled my business and past requests with a highly professional response and that has been much appreciated". From NH, resident in Norway.
"Thank you for the excellent way you dealt with my late husband's estate and for your help and advice which was much appreciated." M O'M
"Can I once again take this opportunity to thank you and your staff for the assistance and advice given. It is much appreciated." IMcF
"Many thanks for your expert and friendly help in this matter!" BS
"I should like to take this opportunity to thank you for your understanding and efficiency while dealing with my late father's estate." SC
"Thank you for the service you have given to myself and family" AH
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