Features
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FeatureWinner takes all
Hertfordshire firm Debenhams Ottaway was the first winner of the Law Society’s Excellence in Private Client Practice Award in 2015. Susan Glenholme explains the wealth of benefits winning the award has brought to the business
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FeatureThe line of duty
The new higher stamp duty land tax rate for additional properties came into effect on 1 April 2016. Nigel Popplewell outlines how the changes apply to purchasers, including companies, trustees, and those with existing inherited property
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OpinionHere comes trouble
Government plans to raise probate fees is the latest move to ‘reform’ private client law. Such meddling can only lead to more problems, argues Gary Rycroft
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FeatureWilling and able?
Constance McDonnell looks at the complexities of assessing testamentary capacity remotely, including in online will-making, and whether solicitors should proceed with an instruction if there is uncertainty as to capacity
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FeatureISA on the prize
Making use of the annual ISA allowance is one of the simplest ways to shelter tax investments efficiently, but one that many more investors could take advantage of. Toni Carver rounds up some recent changes to the ISA regime
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FeatureGiving you the benefits
There are many welfare benefits available to elderly clients who satisfy the appropriate criteria, but this is a complex and rapidly changing area of the law. Nicola August and Val Prosser provide a guide to the major benefits, and how you can challenge a decision
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FeatureSpanish ties
Nine months after it came into force, Alberto Perez Cedillo addresses the impact of the Brussels IV regulation on cross-border successions in Spain – and details other Spanish internal laws you need to be aware of when dealing with an estate
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FeatureLink in the chain
Susan Kench and Emily Miller help you get to grips with LinkedIn and explain why it is worth a private client solicitor’s time
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FeatureReduced circumstances
The case for pensions has become more compelling over recent years, with increased flexibility and lower tax charges. However, a number of recent changes have reduced how much higher earners in particular can benefit. Patrick Connolly explains
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FeaturePower play
In the aftermath of Miles & Beattie v The Public Guardian, the law is in a state of confusion in respect of what can be specified about a joint power of attorney in a lasting power of attorney. Adam Boyle looks in detail at the judgment
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FeatureAll good advice
The 2013 Retail Distribution Review drastically altered the financial advice landscape. Stephen Kavanagh looks at the pressures on financial advisers, and what it could mean for the future – and independence – of financial advice