How to administer an estate (probate)?

Should any disputes arise either with the tax authorities or between beneficiaries in relation to the payment of tax, legal advice should be taken at the earliest possible opportunity in such matters, as delays in making tax payments can result in penalties being imposed on an estate.

How can I challenge the terms of a trust?

If you are a beneficiary, you may encounter difficulties related to: obtaining information from trustees, requesting distributions from trustees, speeding up the administration of trusts. and actions for fraud or breach of fiduciary duties. Vardags can offer extensive guidance for beneficiaries in respect to the above issues and more.

Can I challenge the terms of an unfair will?

You do not need to be a relative of the deceased to contest a will. If you were dependent of the deceased then you may also have a claim under the Inheritance Act if you believe they did not make reasonable provision for you. Of course, each case is unique, with different facts and circumstances to consider, but Vardags will guide you through the best strategy to make a claim against the deceaseds estate. If you do wish to contest a will you need to act quickly, and it is important to note that you do not need to wait for the grant of probate to start a claim. As such, the time limit for contesting a will is six months after the grant of probate or Letters of Administration.

What to do if I am the beneficiary or executor of a will and someone is challenging it?

All estates must go through the process of probate, which is overseen by the Probate Court. It is this court which ultimately decides if the deceaseds will should be given legal effect. Unfortunately, disputes can arise when dealing with the deceaseds personal possessions.

Can I write assets into trust?

Vardags can prepare Lifetime trusts as part of your succession planning or Will trusts to protect your assets for young, disabled or vulnerable loved ones. We can also deal with the alteration of existing trusts and offer bespoke advice on the implications of any such alterations, including all applicable tax and general advice, factoring in all the relevant circumstances.

Under English law a will must be in writing and signed by the person creating the will in front of two witnesses, all present at the same time. There must be no doubt as to what your intentions are, so the will must be very carefully drafted to ensure that it will be valid and stand up to any claims.

What to do if I am the trustee of a trust and someone is challenging the trust?

If you are a trustee, it is not uncommon for issues to arise concerning a connected trust. A trustee may be faced with issues such as: a breach of trust claim, dealing with unforeseen tax liabilities, and handling difficult beneficiaries, to name but a few.

Vardags can assist trustees in carrying out their fiduciary duties effectively so as to prevent exposure to litigation. If you are a trustee who has been presented with a breach of trust claim, we can advise you of the defences which may be applicable to your situation.

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Throughout my time using Vardags I felt that I have always been in the best possible hands. I enjoyed an excellent level of service and received accurate and precise legal advice. The lawyers are hugely talented, sensitive and... READ MORE focused on getting the very best results. Their no-nonsense and direct approach is most valuable when time and costs are of the essence. I highly recommend them over and above any other law firm I have ever dealt with. Thank you Vardags.

Valerie

I found myself in a position that I quite simply never dreamt I would be in in a million years. I went to Vardags, initially for advice. All my options were laid out in a very professional yet personal way. We decided to go down... READ MORE a particular route and as my situation changed , so did the route that Vardags recommended. I had never felt so vulnerable in all my life and so it was very comforting to feel supported at all times.

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Outstanding firm and of highest level of professionalism. I would highly recommend Vardags as best in class in what they do.

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I would like to say working with the staff at Vardags was a great support to me at a difficult time of my life but with their support and sensitivity I was able to get through the experience with less stress and ease. If anyone... READ MORE is looking for a good legal team I would recommend Vardags. They may cost a bit more but will give you good service.

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Vardags Limited is a limited company trading as Vardags, Company No 7199468, registered in England and Wales, having its registered office at 10 Old Bailey, London EC4M 7NG. Vardags is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA Number 535955). Its VAT number is 99 001 7230.

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What to do if I am the trustee of a trust and someone is challenging the trust?

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