How do I make a will during lockdown?

During these uncertain times, we have been contacted by an increasing number of people to draft wills and prepare powers of attorney as word has spread about the safe method that we have devised to administer these documents.

Naturally we all have to be mindful of official advice on self-isolation and social distancing, which are particularly important for the elderly, ill and vulnerable, but here at Parry Law we have perfected a flexible system to ensure that your wishes are legally executed.

Our initial meeting is via telephone or email so we handle any enquiries that you may have without the need for you to put you or your family at any unnecessary risk. 

Once it is time to sign and witness your documents, if you do not wish your friends or neighbours to assist in this task, we have a tried and tested plan that keeps us all safe!

As always, you will receive sympathetic, timely and practical advice and assistance from our specialist team based at our Whitstable and Herne Bay offices.

Call us now on 01227 276276 – we’re here to help you.

Banded Fees to be introduced for Probate Applications

From May 2017, the way fees are charged for probate applications will change. The current flat fees (£155 if the application is made by a solicitor, or £215 if made by an individual) are to be replaced with a banded fee structure.

This means that small estates (of less than £50,000) will be able to proceed without any application charge being payable, but the probate application fee will otherwise be dependent on the size of the estate.

It is expected that for estates with a value between £50,000 and £300,000 the probate fee will be £300, estates up to £500,000 will pay £1,000, and those up to £1,000,000 will pay £4,000.  This will be a significant change from the previous structure for some applicants, but a solicitor can help guide you through the process.

If you would like to discuss the changes or any other probate related matter, please get in touch with our private client department.