18
January
Client Testimonial
A testimonial for Pauline O’Rourke, family solicitor based in Birmingham.
“I just wanted to drop you a quick note to tell you what a fantastic Solicitor Pauline is. I’ve had years of representation that only ever seemed to write letters (and charge me handsomely for it). Pauline’s approach was a breath of fresh air; pro-actively calling the other side and trying to drive my case forward to a conclusion, keeping me informed at each stage about what was happening or could happen. I always feel like there is a plan, and that every eventuality has been catered for.
I feel like Pauline genuinely cares for me and my situation. I know that she has much bigger cases and clients but I always feel like I’m her top priority. Pauline will always be the number I call if I need legal representation for anything in the future.
18
January
The Search for a Will – How to find out whether your loved one left a valid Will
The search for a Will – How to find out whether your loved one left a valid Will
After a loved one has died there is a lot to think about and arrange, all at a difficult time when family members are grieving their loss. If your loved one left a valid Will and you know where it is kept this can help reduce some of the uncertainty. Unfortunately, a missing Will or doubts over whether one was left at all can have the opposite effect and cause a lot of stress for the family.
Our head of Wills and Probate, Amye Aris, discusses a few practical steps you can take to see whether a valid Will left by your loved one exists, and if so, where it is held:
SEARCHING THROUGH PAPERS
I always advise my clients to make a folder of all of their assets and liabilities and put it somewhere obvious
09
September
Is the Cost-of-Living Crisis Likely to Impact Upon Couples Wanting a Divorce?
The cost-of-living crisis is something that concerns us all. The additional worry of household finances and having to restrict outgoings is likely to be a source of discussion and even arguments between couples. Is the cost-of-living crisis likely to impact upon couples wanting to divorce?
The fact is that clients have many reasons why they want to separate rather that it being just one issue. The factors that lead to divorce can include no longer sharing the same goals, drifting apart, abuse, alcohol dependency or just no longer feeling part of a happy union. Money issues are raised if one spouse feels that the other has been spending joint monies on their own needs such as alcohol or socialising or racking up credit card debts when money is tight within the family.
There is no right time for a divorce and so deciding on whether to divorce will be personal to you
25
July
Five Things You Should Know Before Seeing a Solicitor About Making a Will
We understand that it can sometimes be quite daunting to come and see us to discuss a new Will. Clients tell us that they have put off making a new Will for many reasons, or simply because they don’t wish to think about their death. Ensuring that a valid a Will is in place makes things so much easier for loved ones left behind, and also, when done correctly, ensures that your last wishes are met. Our Amye Aris, Head of Wills and Probate and New Leaf Solicitors, explains the top 5 things to think about before your Will appointment.
1. ROUGHLY WHAT ARE YOUR ASSETS WORTH?
We ask that you provide us with a rough indication of all sole and jointly owned assets so that we can discuss inheritance tax mitigation and future planning with you. This includes the approximate value of your property, whether there’s any mortgages or loans, the
21
July
What Do I Do If I Have Divorced But My Ex-spouse Dies Shortly Afterwards?
Death and Divorce may sound brutal but the subject of Wills and inheritance is important when dealing with divorce.
What do I do if I have divorced but then my ex spouse dies shortly afterwards? This may be an unusual situation but it can happen.
Our clients are advised during the divorce process that they should have a Will or review their existing Will. This is because divorce, meaning the Final Order, formerly known as the Decree Absolute affects inheritance under a Will. The Final Order effectively treats the former spouse as if they have died and any provisions in a Will where any property or assets are bequeathed to the former spouse will pass as if that former spouse had died. In other words if a spouse was to benefit under their spouses Will then that clause will fail and they will not inherit.
With the advent of the no fault divorce
24
November
Client Testimonial
Another warm testimonial for Francine Bristo…
‘Thank you so much for your help and support throughout the process…I suppose times with covid have seemed strange without you seeing clients, however you’ve made me feel like the whole process has been caring and personal’.
From Mrs L
03
November
Client Testimonial
Another warm testimonial for our Francine Bristo
“You’ve been so helpful and professional but more importantly “human” and understanding. It’s been such a difficult time but you made me feel much more comfortable and put my mind at ease, thank you.”
Mrs A
02
November
Helping Your Child Through Separation
Our Francine Bristo offers some guidance on helping your child through separation
Separation is difficult for everyone including children. It is hard to parent when you are struggling with your emotions. There is information and support out there, be kind to yourself and get help where you need it. It is important to look after yourself. Life will be difficult for a while but there is lots you can do to reduce the impact of the separation on your children. Co-parenting is hard but it is so very worthwhile. When parents co-parent their children well the outcomes are better for everyone.
Maintain a working co-parenting relationship with your ex and avoid exposing your children to conflict. Being patient, offering repeated reassurance and a listening ear can make a huge difference at this uncertain time. Keep the comfort of routine where possible.
When telling the children about the separation prepare what you will