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  • Why Choose MDW Solicitors for Probate Services?

    Expertise and Personalized Guidance At MDW Solicitors, we understand that probate can be a complex and emotional process. When it comes to probate, you need more than just legal expertise—you need a compassionate partner who understands the emotional challenges during this difficult time. Here’s why MDW Solicitors stands out: 1 Specialization in Probate and Estate Matters Our team specializes in probate, wills, and estate planning. Led by Debra Williamson, TEP (a highly experienced solicitor), we offer expertise tailored to your unique situation. 2 Compassionate Approach We recognize the sensitivity of probate proceedings. Our compassionate approach ensures that you receive personalized guidance throughout the process. 3 Efficient Handling We streamline the probate process, minimizing delays and ensuring efficient handling. Our goal is to make the experience as smooth as possible during a challenging time. 4 Legal Clarity Our solicitors provide clear explanations of legal terms and steps involved. You’ll have a comprehensive understanding of the probate process. 5 Fixed-Fee Approach Transparency matters to us. We offer a fixed-fee structure for probate services. No surprises—just straightforward pricing. Client Testimonial “Debra dealt with my matter extremely efficiently and professionally. She explained everything clearly to me and took all the worry out of the process. It was a quick and overall a very positive experience. I have already recommended her to friends and family due to fantastic value for money and brilliant customer service. Thank you so much.” — Miss H (Windsor) Contact MDW Solicitors Secure your family’s future with confidence. Schedule a consultation today: Address: 1 Chalfont Park, Gerrards Cross, SL9 0BG Email: debrawilliamson@mdwsolicitors.com Phone: 01753 299466 Let us guide you through probate, ensuring your loved ones are protected

  • Why Choose a TEP Qualified Lawyer for Your Legal Needs?

    Understanding TEP and Its Importance When it comes to legal matters related to trusts, estates, and private client work, having a TEP (Trust and Estate Practitioner) by your side can make all the difference. Let’s explore why choosing a TEP qualified lawyer is a smart decision: 1 Expertise and Specialization A TEP is a professional who has undergone specialized training in trusts, estates, and related areas. They possess in-depth knowledge of inheritance, succession, and tax planning. 2 Global Network and Collaboration TEPs are part of a global network of over 21,000 advisors and professionals. This network allows them to share insights, expertise, and best practices across professional and geographic boundaries. 3 Tailored Solutions TEPs provide tailored solutions based on your specific needs. Whether it’s structuring wealth, estate planning, or dealing with complex legal matters, a TEP can guide you effectively. MDW Solicitors: Your Trusted TEP Qualified Lawyers At MDW Solicitors, we take pride in offering TEP qualified legal services. Here’s why you should choose us: 1 Debra Williamson, TEP Our founder, Debra Williamson, is a highly experienced solicitor who qualified in 1993. She specializes in advising clients on trusts, wills, probate, lifetime tax planning, and lasting powers of attorney. 2 Personalized Approach We understand that legal matters can be overwhelming. Our personalized approach ensures you receive the attention and time you deserve. Whether it’s drafting a will, handling probate, or planning for the future, we’re here for you. 3 Fixed-Fee Transparency We often deal with cases on a fixed-fee basis, so you know exactly what to expect from the outset. No surprises—just friendly, expert legal service. 4 Inspired by Family Values The inspiration behind MDW Solicitors was Debra Williamson’s late father, Maurice Douglas Williamson. His legacy drives our commitment to protecting families and securing their futures. Contact MDW Solicitors Ready to put your legal affairs in order? Contact us today: Address: 1 Chalfont Park, Gerrards Cross, SL9 0BG Email: debrawilliamson@mdwsolicitors.com Phone: 01753 299466 Choose MDW Solicitors—a family-run firm led by Debra Williamson (TEP) to safeguard your interests.

  • Probate: A Quick and Simple Guide

    1 What Is Probate? Probate grants the legal right to manage the deceased person’s estate. It involves accessing funds, sorting finances, and distributing assets. You should not make financial plans or put property on the market until you’ve obtained probate. 2 When Is Probate Needed? Check if probate is needed by contacting the financial organizations the deceased person used (e.g., their bank and mortgage company). You may not need probate if the person who died: Only had savings. Owned shares or money jointly with others. Owned land or property as ‘joint tenants’ with others. 3 Applying for Probate: Value the estate and estimate whether there’s Inheritance Tax to pay. Executors named in the will can apply if there’s one. If there’s no will, the closest living relative can apply. MDW Solicitors Can Help: At MDW Solicitors, we specialize in private client work, including probate, wills, and estate planning. Contact us for professional advice and assistance: Address: 1 Chalfont Park, Gerrards Cross, SL9 0BG Email: debrawilliamson@mdwsolicitors.com Phone: 01753 299466 Let us guide you through the process!

  • Why Young Couples with Babies Should Have a Will

    Secure Your Family’s Future As a young couple embarking on the journey of parenthood, it’s essential to consider the future well-being of your family. One crucial step in this process is creating a Last Will and Testament. Here’s why: 1. Guardianship for Your Children A Will allows you to designate a guardian for your children in case both parents pass away. Without a Will, the court will decide who will care for your children, which may not align with your wishes. 2. Asset Distribution Your Will outlines how your assets (such as property, savings, and investments) should be distributed. By specifying your wishes, you ensure that your partner and children receive their rightful share. 3. Avoiding Intestacy Laws If you die without a Will (intestate), the law dictates how your estate is distributed. Having a Will ensures that your wishes prevail over generic legal rules. 4. Tax Efficiency Proper estate planning through a Will can minimize inheritance tax liabilities. Consult with our experienced solicitors to explore tax-saving strategies. 5. Peace of Mind Knowing that your family is protected and your wishes are documented provides peace of mind. A Will ensures clarity and reduces potential disputes among family members. MDW Solicitors: Your Trusted Advisors At MDW Solicitors, we specialize in private client work, including Wills, Probate, and Lasting Powers of Attorney. Led by Debra Williamson, TEP (a highly experienced solicitor), we offer professional legal services with a personal touch. Contact Us: Address: 1 Chalfont Park, Gerrards Cross, SL9 0BG Email: debrawilliamson@mdwsolicitors.com Phone: 01753 299466 Let us help you secure your family’s future. Schedule a consultation today!

  • Understanding Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs)

    What Is a Power of Attorney? A power of attorney is a legal document that appoints someone (referred to as your ‘attorney’) to make decisions on your behalf. It becomes crucial when you’re no longer able to make or communicate your own decisions due to various reasons. Why Consider LPAs? Temporary Assistance: LPAs can be a temporary measure, especially if you’re going into the hospital and need help with everyday financial tasks like paying bills. Long-Term Planning: For long-term planning, LPAs are essential. For instance, if you’ve been diagnosed with dementia, planning ahead ensures that your wishes are respected even if you lose mental capacity in the future. Types of Lasting Powers of Attorney Property and Affairs LPA Allows the appointed person to make decisions related to your property and finances. Relevant for managing bills, investments, and property transactions. Health and Welfare LPA Empowers the appointed person to make decisions about your care and medical treatment. Crucial for ensuring your preferences are followed regarding health and well-being. Setting Up an LPA: Practical Steps 1 Choosing Your Attorney(s) You can appoint more than one attorney Consider someone you trust implicitly. 2 Complete the Necessary Forms Fill in the forms to officially appoint your chosen attorney(s) 3 Register the LPA Register the LPA with the Office of the Public Guardian (this process may take up to 20 weeks). The registration fee is £82 unless you qualify for a reduction or exemption. MDW Solicitors: Your Trusted Legal Advisors At MDW Solicitors, we specialize in private client work, including LPAs, wills, probate, trusts, and estate planning. Led by Debra Williamson, TEP (a highly experienced solicitor), we offer professional legal services with a personal touch. Our fixed-fee approach ensures transparency from the outset. Feel free to explore our website for more information or download our free legal guides on Wills, Probate, and Powers of Attorney. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us: Address: 1 Chalfont Park, Gerrards Cross, SL9 0BG Email: debrawilliamson@mdwsolicitors.com Phone: 01753 299466 Remember, planning ahead with LPAs provides peace of mind and protects your interests. Let us assist you in securing your future!

  • The Importance of Wills and LPAs in Protecting Family Bonds

    The heart-wrenching story of Carolyn Stephens and her father, Vincent, serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of organizing wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs). In 2012, Carolyn bid farewell to her father, not knowing that it marked the beginning of a painful journey where she would be estranged from him for almost four years. Vincent's changing circumstances, influenced by a new relationship and health issues, emphasize the need for legal preparations that safeguard individuals and their families. Vincent's story took a drastic turn when he met Iris, a woman he befriended on a holiday in Cyprus. Carolyn's concerns grew as Vincent sold his house to be closer to Iris, and she suspected that their relationship was isolating him from his family and friends. Moreover, Vincent's health started deteriorating, with signs of potential dementia, raising alarms for Carolyn. Vincent's situation worsened when Iris gained power of attorney over his affairs. While granting power of attorney requires mental capacity and a lack of coercion, the system is susceptible to abuse. Dr. James Warner highlights the challenge of assessing mental capacity, and the potential for exploitation is evident when Iris complained to the police, leading to a severed relationship between Carolyn and her father. Carolyn's determined search for her father over several years underscores the difficulties faced by families in such situations. Iris's death led Carolyn to discover Vincent's whereabouts, hidden away in a care home. The lack of communication and information during this period highlights the need for legal provisions that empower families to stay connected and informed about their loved ones. Vincent's story emphasizes the need for better legal protections for vulnerable older individuals. Carolyn believes that had her father planned for the future, including an early diagnosis of dementia and a power of attorney in her favour, it would have been harder for him to be isolated. Concerns about potential vulnerabilities in the legal system, as seen in the new Powers of Attorney Act, further emphasize the necessity for robust legal frameworks that protect the elderly. The tragic tale of Vincent and Carolyn Stephens serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of family bonds, especially in the face of changing circumstances and potential exploitation. Organizing wills and LPAs can play a crucial role in preserving family relationships, ensuring that the wishes and well-being of individuals are protected. As society grapples with evolving legal frameworks, it becomes imperative to prioritize the rights and protections of vulnerable older individuals, allowing families to navigate challenges and stay connected through difficult times. To find out more on this story follow this link: https://www-bbc-co-uk.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-67773394.amp If you require advice in relation to lasting powers of attorney or drafting a will, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Call us now on 01752 299 466 or email us directly at debrawilliamson@mdwsolicitors.com

  • FAQ's - Setting up a lifetime trust.

    I set up a lifetime trust and put a property in it. What happens if I want to sell the property? Lifetime tax planning is an excellent way to mitigate against inheritance tax. Many people set up trusts during their lifetime, and they are not just for the most affluent. When a Trust is set up, it is a lifetime chargeable transfer for Inheritance tax purposes, and there may be immediate Inheritance tax to pay. People think of Inheritance tax as a death tax, but it is not just paid on death. It is essential to get legal advice when setting up a Trust, as there are ways to ensure that no tax is paid upon setting up. For example, there may be an IHT charge on a Trust withdrawal and on the 10th anniversary. Again, legal advice should be sought. What happens if I put a property in Trust and then want to sell it? Capital Gains Tax is payable again. The gain is calculated by deducting the property's market value going into the trust from the proceeds of the sale. You can deduct any monies you used to enhance the property and any charges relating to the sale. The Trust would also have its’ annual exemption of £6150, which can be deducted from the gain. There may be other reliefs available depending on the circumstances, for example, PPR. Again, legal advice is crucial as without applying for the relevant reliefs, you could be producing a tax return which adds thousands of pounds to your tax bill. We recently advised a client how they could reduce their tax from around £35,000 to £12,000 by applying for the correct relief. If the Trust comes to an end and I now personally own the property, when I sell it, do I pay CGT? The answer is likely to be yes. You are likely to pay CGT on the difference between the sale proceeds and the market value when the trust ends, less any costs incurred. You will need legal advice as it depends on the individual circumstances as to how to advise. MDW Solicitors Ltd is headed by Debra Williamson, who has 29 years of qualification as a Lawyer. Debra has taken all her STEP exams and is STEP affiliated. MDW Solicitors is a specialist firm dealing in Trusts, tax, probate, wills, LPAs, motoring offences and private Crime. We can attend the police station to represent, but we do not do any legal aid work.

  • Have your children flown the nest yet?

    Are you dealing with empty nest syndrome? If your children are in full-time work or have moved into homes of their own, you may be feeling a new sense of independence. Many people choose to travel more in retirement, enjoying longer holidays without the constraints of work or school. As it says in our 5 crucial reasons why you need a Lasting Power of Attorney if you are over 55, creating an LPA can allow you to go off and enjoy travelling the world whilst your domestic affairs are kept in order. Whether it is the sunnier climate of Spain, the peacefulness of the French countryside or even further afield, you can relax knowing that someone is on hand to look after your money. Find out more about why it makes sense to appoint an Attorney sooner rather than later by calling me on 01753 299466 or emailing debrawilliamson@mdwsolicitors.com. P.S. When you create a Lasting Power of Attorney, it’s a good time to review your Will and ensure it is up to date. If you haven’t already made a Will, download ourFive reasons why everyone over 40 needs a Will to ensure you make the right preparations for your future. I’m happy to confirm I have been pleased with the service you have provided. I particularly like the location and style of your office, all designed to offer a relaxed atmosphere, yet retaining a professional touch. From the moment I first met you at the St Giles fair at your promotion event I liked your relaxed approach and I have not been disappointed. Mr J

  • Dealing with inheritance tax and self-assessment

    Inheritance tax is a tax on the estate of someone who has died. There’s normally no Inheritance Tax to pay if the value of the estate is below £325,000. But that doesn’t mean that there are no forms to complete. You’ll still need to complete an IHT205 detailing the value of the estate, to demonstrate why tax isn’t payable. As it says in our 5 major pitfalls of a ‘DIY’ probate, if the value of the estate is higher than this nil rate tax band you may have to complete and submit to HMRC over 20 different forms. That’s before you’ve got started on a self-assessment tax return if the person that died was required to do one. If you aren’t familiar with these forms then asking a solicitor to help can ease the burden and ensure these essential forms are dealt with as quickly and efficiently as possible. P.S. With both legal and financial experts in our team, we’re happy to answer any questions you may have, including queries relating to Inheritance Tax and self-assessment.

  • Understanding the legal jargon: who can be an Attorney?

    You can choose a family member, friend, spouse or partner to be your Attorney. You can also ask a professional, such as a solicitor or accountant that you know well. The important thing is that you select someone that you trust, as you will be giving them full responsibility and power over your affairs. Just like appointing Executors for your Will, it’s important to talk to the person about it first and ensure they are happy to do it. It can be helpful to appoint more than one Attorney. If you do so, you’ll need to decide if you want them to work jointly – meaning they work together on all matters, or jointly and severally – where they may act together or separately, as they choose or on specific matters. For example, you may want to specify that they must act jointly for major decisions such as selling your house, but they can act jointly and severally for all other decisions such as disposing of your possessions when the time comes. Remember that you don’t have to be unwell or elderly to appoint an Attorney. The role of the Attorney is to support you and enable you to make your own decisions for as long as you possibly can. Only when you are unable, will they step in to make decisions on your behalf and ensure your wishes are respected. P.S. Worried about how long it might take to create your Lasting Power of Attorney? I can provide a quick and efficient service. “Debra dealt with my matter extremely efficiently and professionally. She explained everything clearly to me and took all the worry out of the process. It was a quick and overall a very positive experience. I have already recommended her to friends and family due to fantastic value for money and brilliant customer service. Thank you so much.” Miss H (Windsor)

  • Understanding the stages of probate

    There are three key stages in the probate process: Valuing the estate Completing all the relevant IHT forms and applying for probate Gathering in funds and then distributing them in line with the person’s Will (if they had one) or in line with intestacy rules (if there was no Will) Some of these stages can be easier to manage than others so we offer a flexible service that can be adapted to the particular situation of your probate. For example, we can provide legal support in just the initial stages of probate. We can contact organisations to help you identify the value of the estate, ensuring you have thought about any potential debts the person might have such as utility bills owing or credit card statements, as well as all potential assets including their home. Our experienced team can complete the required forms including IHT, handing over to you to gather the funds and distribute the estate once probate has been granted. “An excellent service, very efficient” - Mr R (Ruislip) We can also act until the estate is fully disposed of so that you don’t have to take on any aspect of the process. This can be particularly helpful in complex or high-value estates which can be very time consuming and take months or even years to process. Where the will has been misplaced or may be invalid, using a legal professional through the whole process means you and your family are fully protected. P.S. We offer a clear and transparent fixed-fee policy for dealing with probate, giving you peace of mind. You can see the fees involved in each stage of probate on our website.

  • Have you booked your free LPA review yet?

    At this free consultation, we will look at your current situation and help you identify the potential impact that not having a Lasting Power of Attorney could have on your life. We will then show you the steps we can take to avoid these problems and take control of your future. You might be surprised just how much influence the State can have if you haven’t made your wishes clear. Do you want medical professionals to make decisions about your treatment? Are you happy with the State deciding whether you should move into a Care home or not? Even if you have talked extensively with your partner or family about these kinds of scenarios, if you don’t have an LPA in place then they cannot carry out your wishes. Ensure your voice is heard by creating a Lasting Power of Attorney. PS. Many people think creating a Lasting Power of Attorney is expensive. But it can be more affordable than you think. At MDW Solicitors we believe in transparency and value for money. I can talk to you about our fixed fee options during our free review, so you know exactly what to expect from the start.

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