Private Client
Vizards Tweedie is unusual amongst central London law firms in offering a full range of specialist private client services. We have acted for families for generations advising private clients at different stages of their lives. We seek to tailor tried and tested solutions to each client's individual circumstances. We have a strong team of highly experienced private client solicitors, a number of whom hold membership of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners and are therefore recognised as specialists in this area.
We advise on Estate and Trusts of all sizes and complexity and can offer a comprehensive Estate planning service. We can provide clients with regular seminars and newsletters, updating them on changes in the law and tax saving schemes. We also deal with applications to the Court of Protection and contentious probate involving Will disputes and Inheritance Act claims. We offer a friendly and sympathetic approach to clients' problems. Our service is partner-led and clients witll have the confidence of knowing that their personal affairs are dealt with by an experienced and sensitive practitioner.
Inheritance Tax and Estate Planning
With house prices rising in this country, Inheritance Tax is an increasing burden. The first tranche of the Estate (the nil rate band) is taxed at 0% but thereafter, on chargeable Estates, it is taxed at 40%. In some cases, this may mean the family home has to be sold in order to pay the tax bill. Despite an increasingly restrictive climate, there are a number of measures which can be taken to reduce this burden, and we advocate that Inheritance Tax planning should start as early as possible in your lifetime and would recommend that you speak to our team about lifetime nil rate Discretionary Trusts.
Wills
70% of people die without making a Will, This can cause serious problems for the surviving dependents. it can also lead to litigation and result in acrimony and costs. Intestacy means that there will be no provision for guardians for minor children or for Inheritance Tax planning. A Will is essential whatever your circumstances. Our practitioners are highly experienced and will prepare a Will tailored to your circumstances.
Lasting Powers of Attorney
For elderly clients, Lasting Powers of Attorney are highly recommended. They enable the appointed person to handle the affairs of the donor should they become mentally incapable. There are now 2 forms of Lasting Powers covering Property and Affairs and Personal Welfare
Will Disputes
In the event that a dispute has arisen in relation to the administration of an Estate or a Trust, we can advise on behalf of claimants or defendants. We also offer a dispute reslution service as part of our Litigation Department
Probate and Estate Administration
We act in Estates of all sizes and complexity as Executors or Administrators or as advisers. The administration process can be emotionally taxing at a difficult time and can involve complex dealings with the Revenue. We are experienced in dealing wwth all aspects of the administration process
Partners
Tony Millson
Christine Green
John Burden
Judith Cuxson