Back to Basics
Back to basics 34: Nil-rate band trusts
Simon Leney and Pippa Ward outline what NRB trusts are, how they are currently used, what the proposed changes to the regime are, and what this means for private client practitioners
Features
We need to talk
Mediation can be a powerful tool for practitioners, especially in private client cases where family relationships are at risk. Viv Hulland outlines the case for sitting down and resolving issues by consensus
All that glitters
Simon Taube QC examines the conflict between the ‘golden rule’ and the solicitor’s duty to execute the will in a reasonable time
Step change
The increase in divorce and resulting complex family structures is raising a new issue for will- writing and estate planning: providing for step-children. Fay Copeland and Caroline Cook examine the issues and solutions
Bend and flex
Too many solicitors rely too heavily on the transferrable nil-rate band to protect clients’ estates after death, says Stephen Haggett. Could flexible discretionary trusts be the answer?
Course of action
The Private Client Section’s new regional seminar series is now under way, and runs until March next year. Book now or miss out!
Lifeline for the lonely: Esther Rantzen talks to us about The Silver Line
Journalist and campaigner Esther Rantzen has launched a nationwide helpline for elderly people who struggle with loneliness. Before speaking at the Elderly Client Care Conference last month, she discussed with PS how private client solicitors can play their part too.
Left behind
The Presumption of Death Act came into force on 1 October 2014, allowing the family of a missing person to settle their estate and dissolve a marriage or civil partnership. Sarah Young explains the process
Take care
Advising your elderly clients on the range of care options available is a new and untapped way to add value to the services you provide, suggests Simon Leney
Mental notes
Helen Clarke reviews two new books aimed at providing practical support for solicitors on mental capacity and elderly client issues
Trust issues
Your firm’s referral arrangements with financial advisers could have a very significant effect – for good or bad – on your relationship with clients. Mark Brownridge looks how to find your ideal referral partner, and how due diligence can help
Darkening the door
Doorstep crime is an increasing problem, especially for vulnerable adults and the elderly. Ruth Andrews explains what it is, and how practitioners can spot the warning signs and help protect vulnerable clients
New tricks
Last month, practitioners met at Chancery Lane for the Private Client Section’s first Elderly Client Conference. Gary Rycroft rounds up the event
Specialist needs
Julie Butler looks at the impact of Mehjoo v Harben Barker in relation to when it becomes necessary to obtain specialist advice for farming clients