We know it is easy to put off planning for the future. However Wills and Enduring Powers of Attorney can help you keep in control of your finances and make things much simpler for you and your relatives as you get older. Tax planning can also help protect your estate for younger generations.

   Administration of Estates
If you are bereaved, our probate specialists are able to help by handling the administration of the estate in an understanding manner. We can deal with the whole estate or help out with certain parts, such as dealing with the finances and tax whilst you arrange the funeral and sort out belongings. If you have been appointed the Executor, or if there is no Will, we can also advise on the appropriate course of action.

   Wills
Without a Will, you are unable to control what happens to your assets when you die. If you die intestate (without a Will) your estate may not pass to those you wish and may leave your dependants with many problems.

We can help you by drawing up a Will to ensure that your wishes are carried out and that you take advantage of tax planning opportunities. Even if your Will is quite simple, it is important that the document is prepared and signed correctly.

We make no additional charge for being appointed as Executors or for storing your Will once it is made.

   Inheritance Tax
With the value of property increasing, more and more people are finding that they may be liable to Inheritance Tax. We can give you straightforward advice as to how it may affect you. In some cases, especially with married couples, there are simple ways to dramatically reduce the potential tax bill.

   Lasting Power of Attorney
The new Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), which came into effect on 1st October 2007, enables you to appoint someone to either deal with your personal welfare or your property and affairs should a time come when you are no longer able to do so yourself. It can avoid major difficulties for your family and loved ones. We advise all our older clients to consider appointing an Attorney whilst they are still capable.

Its' predecessor, the Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA), is still a valid document and should you require assistance in registering an EPA with the Office of the Public Guardian we are able to help with this.

   Disabled Access and Home Visits
Our offices in Christchurch are adapted for disabled access. Alternatively, we are happy to make home visits should you prefer.