Wills | Probate | Administration of Estates
Why make a will?
One of the main reasons and best advantage of making a will is that you have a clear legal document to direct what becomes of your property, assets and possessions on your death. A will allows you to provide for loved ones and family members on your death and allows you to appoint trustees and guardians of any minor children that you may have. A will allows you to choose who is to handle your legal affairs on your death. Making a will is also an opportunity to ensure that the absolute minimum amount of inheritance tax is paid by your beneficiaries on your death (Tax Planning).
WHO SHOULD MAKE A WILL?
We would recommend that all of your clients make a will, no matter how large or small your assets might be. In particular, one should seriously consider making a will in the following circumstances:
- If you get married (a subsequent marriage automatically revokes an existing will)
- If you have young children
- If your marital status changes for any reason (Divorce, Judicial Separation, Separation)
- If you own property or any other significant asset.
- If you are in a long term relationship but have not married.
PROBATE & ADMINSTRATION OF ESTATES
We have a Probate & Administration of Estates service where we provide advice on the legal process in which an estate is transferred or distributed after a person's death in accordance with the terms of the will or pursuant to the rules for distribution on intestacy set down by the Succession Act 1965.
We will advise you on the legal issues that relate to the administration, management and distribution of the estate and on any taxation issues that may arise.
Frequently it is the surviving spouse or a son or daughter who is the legal personal representative and is given the responsibility for dealing with the deceased person's affairs. It can therefore be an emotional time for you giving us instructions on the probate process. We at McCullagh Higgins & Co. LLP understand this and will ensure that you are shown compassion, understanding and discretion in all of our dealings throughout the process.
We will advise you on the legal issues that relate to the administration, management and distribution of the estate and on any taxation issues that may arise.
Frequently it is the surviving spouse or a son or daughter who is the legal personal representative and is given the responsibility for dealing with the deceased person's affairs. It can therefore be an emotional time for you giving us instructions on the probate process. We at McCullagh Higgins & Co. LLP understand this and will ensure that you are shown compassion, understanding and discretion in all of our dealings throughout the process.
Our services in this area also extend to:
- Power of Attorney
- Enduring Power of Attorney
- Nursing Home Support Scheme ("Fair Deal")
- Advice
- Applying for State Support
- Applying for Nursing Home Loan (Ancillary State Support)
- Circuit Court applications to have a party appointed as a Care Representative
- Ward of Court Applications
- Lifetime gifts
- Family arrangements
If you require advice or representation under the above headings, please contact us.
