Back to Basics: Drafting LPA clauses
Craig Ward looks at how to draft clauses in lasting powers of attorney, including the importance of clarifying client instructions, being aware of current case law, and drafting with a practical outlook
The hidden link
Issues around mental capacity aren’t limited to private client; they can arise in any practice area. But mental capacity solicitors can support the whole firm by training colleagues in other practice areas. Holly Miéville-Hawkins outlines a simple training plan
Sign it over
There are several reasons why clients may want to transfer ownership of their home to their children – avoiding its value being included in care fee assessments, for example. But, cautions Roz Wyeth, there are major tax implications when passing on property
Walking papers
In 2008, Quanticks was one of the first law firms to go completely paperless. Neil Quantick explains why he made the switch, the benefits it can bring, and how it can work for firms
Not over yet
The government may have dropped its planned hike in probate fees, but Gary Rycroft suspects it is not the last we’ll hear of the proposals
Band practice
The new residence nil-rate band is now with us. Lesley King looks at some of the problems that can arise in practice, and offers some practical case studies and solutions
Cross purposes
Alberto Perez Cedillo reports back from the latest Cross Border Conference, held at the Law Society in March
Border patrols
Gill Steel looks at how practitioners in France, Spain and Italy have been handling cross-border estates since the EU Succession Regulation came into force almost two years ago, and offers some case studies addressing common practical problems
Key to succession
2016 heralded change to Scotland’s laws of succession. Eleanor Kerr gives an overview of the new rules and an insight into the major succession law review to come
Standard bearers
Sheree Green discusses a number of recent mental capacity cases that signpost best practice and offer guidance for professional deputies
Read the signs
Angela Johnson from the Office of the Public Guardian explains how to spot the signs of elder abuse
What a relief
Business property relief is one of the most generous tax reliefs available in inheritance tax planning, but there are still several pitfalls to watch out for. David Thornber provides a guide