Scroll down to read helpful articles on a wide range of estate planning topics, or use the search button to find answers to a specific query.

Wills, Trusts Donna Hames Wills, Trusts Donna Hames

What is a ‘right to reside’?

A property trust in your Will can help to safeguard your share of your family home. Our blog explains how this could benefit your family.

You may think that Will trusts are only for the super-wealthy, but this is a misconception. We explain all you need to know with a case study example.

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Wills, Law Donna Hames Wills, Law Donna Hames

Can someone with dementia make a Will?

You may think that if a person has a dementia diagnosis, they can no longer make a Will. In many cases, this could be true, but a qualified and experienced professional may be able to help. Read on for helpful guidance about the test for capacity to make a Will.

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Wills, Estate planning Donna Hames Wills, Estate planning Donna Hames

What can I do to avoid probate delays?

Behind every probate application is a bereaved family trying to organise their affairs at what can be a very sensitive time. HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) aims to make the process of applying for probate as easy as possible for members of the public and probate professionals.

Here are a few top tips to help you avoid delays.

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Wills, Law Donna Hames Wills, Law Donna Hames

Can executors inherit?

This is a common question often asked by clients and comes from a misconception that there’s a conflict between the two roles.

Here’s what you need to know:

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Wills, DIY Donna Hames Wills, DIY Donna Hames

Is your Will still valid?

Using a preprinted form from your local post office to write your Will may seem like an inexpensive option. But did you know that errors or ambiguity could create hassle and delay or mean your wishes can’t be followed?

Here are the top 5 mistakes we come across regularly:

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Wills, DIY Donna Hames Wills, DIY Donna Hames

Can I write my own Will?

Writing your own Will may seem like money saving option. Our team regularly review handwritten Wills that contain minor (and major) errors that mean they are not valid or - worse still - don't have the effect that the Will maker intended. This article explains some of the pitfalls.

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Wills Donna Hames Wills Donna Hames

What’s the statutory legacy?

On 26 July 2023 the statutory legacy will increase from £270,000 to £322,000. Our blog explains the change and why it’s so essential to make a Will, regardless of the size of your estate.

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Wills Donna Hames Wills Donna Hames

Does a Will last a lifetime?

As life moves forward, your Will may need to be updated to ensure it represents your wishes and intentions. Life has an inevitable conclusion. We can’t know our expiry date. It’s sensible to plan for now and review your plans if your circumstances change.

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Wills, Law Donna Hames Wills, Law Donna Hames

What are digital assets?

Digital assets are often overlooked when making a Will. Some digital assets have a monetary value; others don’t, but may have sentimental value. Find out more here.

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Donna Hames Donna Hames

Is free advice really free?

Your initial advice and first meeting is free, so should you suspect a catch? Find out why we’re happy to answer all your queries for free…

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Wills, DIY Donna Hames Wills, DIY Donna Hames

Should I write my own Will?

Using a stationery form to write your Will may seem like an inexpensive option. Our team regularly review handwritten Wills that contain minor (and major) errors that mean they are not valid or - worse still - don't have the effect that the Will maker intended.

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