United Kingdom: Wills/ Intestacy/ Estate Planning

A High Court judgment examines whether trustees can exercise their power of advancement to allow the 8th Marquess of Bath to add his son, born via surrogacy in the USA, as a beneficiary of the Longleat Estate family trusts. The case explores fundamental questions about the meaning of "benefit" in trust law and the interpretation of terms like "child" and "issue" in historic trust documentation, while also considering the implications of recent case law on trustees seeking court approval for momentous decisi

UK citizens owning property in European countries like Spain, Italy, or France face complex succession laws that differ significantly from British inheritance rules. Many European jurisdictions enforce mandatory inheritance portions for relatives that cannot be easily overridden, potentially conflicting with your intended estate distribution. Understanding these forced heirship rules and creating jurisdiction-specific wills becomes essential for ensuring your overseas assets pass to your chosen beneficiarie

Drafting a will is essential to ensure your estate is distributed according to your wishes, yet many overlook this crucial step. What happens when testamentary freedom meets family disputes, coercion allegations, or complex modern family structures? Understanding the role of executors, potential inheritance disputes, and the importance of professional legal guidance can help avoid costly conflicts and ensure your beneficiaries are properly protected.

For families with significant assets, deciding how wealth should be held and passed on can be as important as deciding how it is invested.

When drafting or updating your Will, understanding the financial and tax implications can significantly impact how your estate is distributed. From inheritance tax calculations and residence nil rate bands to charitable...

The Ministry of Justice has released its long-anticipated consultation paper on family law and cohabitation reform.

Recent HMRC figures reveal a sustained increase in Inheritance Tax receipts, driven by frozen thresholds and rising property values. With pensions set to enter the scope of IHT in 2027, more UK families may face unexpected tax liabilities on their estates.

One of the cornerstones of financial remedy proceedings in England and Wales is the obligation on both parties to give full, frank and clear financial disclosure.

Selling a property following the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming. At Anthony Gold Solicitors, we regularly assist families, executors and administrators with the legal process of selling...