Wills and Probate
Estate planning is a vital step in ensuring your wishes are respected and your loved ones are provided for, both now and in the future. Many people find it difficult to discuss matters such as Wills, inheritance, and the management of their affairs after death or incapacity. However, taking the time to plan ahead can provide significant peace of mind for you and security for your family.
At Clodes Solicitors, we understand the sensitive nature of these decisions and are committed to guiding you through the process with empathy, clarity, and professionalism.
Our Services
Will Drafting
A professionally drafted Will is essential to ensure your estate is distributed according to your wishes. Without a valid Will, your assets may not go to those you intend, and important decisions (such as the appointment of guardians for minor children) may be left to the courts. We offer a competitively priced Will drafting service, tailored to your individual circumstances.
Lasting Powers of Attorney
Planning for the future may involve preparing for a time when you are unable to manage your own affairs. We can prepare and register Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) for both Health & Welfare and Property & Financial Affairs, ensuring that trusted individuals can make decisions on your behalf if required.
Probate and Estate Administration
Our probate team provides efficient and sensitive support in administering estates of all sizes. We assist with obtaining Grants of Probate or Letters of Administration, collecting and distributing assets, and resolving any disputes that may arise, including Will challenges and the removal of executors and claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. If you are involved in a dispute regarding a Will or the administration of an estate, please visit our Contentious Probate page for further information on how we can assist.
Trusts and Tax Planning
We advise on the creation and administration of trusts, including Vulnerable Beneficiary Trusts and Disabled Person’s Trusts, to protect assets and provide for minors or disabled beneficiaries. Effective trust and tax planning can help reduce Inheritance Tax liabilities and prevent future disputes.
Our experienced team offers comprehensive advice on all aspects of Wills, probate, and estate administration. Whether you are looking to make your first Will, update an existing one, or require assistance with more complex estate planning, we are here to help. All Wills are drafted by qualified solicitors, ensuring your instructions are accurately reflected and your legal rights are protected. With over 25 years’ experience, we have built a reputation for providing clear, practical solutions tailored to each client’s individual circumstances. Our aim is to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible, so you can be confident that your affairs are in safe hands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Will?
Yes. Having a Will ensures your estate is managed and distributed according to your wishes. It allows you to appoint executors and guardians, make specific gifts, and provide clarity for your loved ones.
What happens if I do not have a Will?
If you die without a Will, the Rules of Intestacy determine how your estate is distributed. These rules do not provide for unmarried partners or those not in a civil partnership, and may not reflect your intentions. This can also lead to unnecessary disputes and claims against your estate.
Who can act as an executor of my Will?
An executor can be anyone aged 18 or over, including family members, friends, or a professional such as a solicitor. It is important to choose someone you trust and who is willing and able to take on the responsibility.
Can I change my Will after it has been made?
Yes. You can update your Will at any time, provided you have the mental capacity to do so. Changes are usually made by preparing a new Will or by adding a codicil, which is a formal amendment to your existing Will.
What is probate and when is it required?
Probate is the legal process of administering a person’s estate after their death. It involves proving the validity of the Will and giving the executors authority to deal with the deceased’s assets. Probate is usually required if the estate includes property or significant assets.
Will Prices
Our fees are transparent and competitive. The following prices apply where there are fewer than 10 beneficiaries and no occupation clauses or trusts are required. For more complex matters, please contact us for a quotation.
- Single Will (Standard): £250 plus VAT (20%)
- Mirror Wills (Standard): £350 plus VAT (20%)
- Life Interest Wills (including Severance of Joint Tenancy): £600 plus VAT (20%)
Contact Us
For further information or to arrange a consultation, please contact Clodes Solicitors on 02920 765050.
Clodes Solicitors is committed to making the process of estate planning as straightforward and stress-free as possible, ensuring your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected.