We understand the importance of securing the future for you and those who are close to you.
Through a range of services, our team can help you to make plans to retain family wealth and transfer assets to the next generation whilst preparing for all possible eventualities and mitigating the potential impact of Inheritance Tax liabilities.
From distributing your assets in your Will to appointing a trusted individual to safeguard your financial and care needs through a Lasting Power of Attorney, our team can find the best solution for your personal circumstances.
Choose Duncan & Toplis as your trusted legal services partner.
Our legal team has the experience and expert knowledge of Will writing to help you either renew or draft your Will. As part of the group which includes the accountancy practice and Castlegate Financial Management, we regularly advice wealthy individuals, business owners, and farmers regarding their Wills.
There are many aspects to consider when it comes to Wills. We can talk you through a range of scenarios that may occur and ensure all eventualities are covered, minimising complications for relatives and business associates following your death and ensuring that any tax mitigation opportunities are recognised and considered.
Retaining family wealth and passing on assets to the next generation is a key consideration for many people, but it is not always easy as emotions and financial implications come into play.
We use extensive knowhow within the legal team and, where necessary, the wider Duncan & Toplis Group to help you put in place plans that will ensure your wishes are carried out, any pitfalls are avoided and your Inheritance Tax liability is minimised.
Creating Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) can be as important as creating a Will. If you are unable to manage your own affairs in the future due to physical or mental incapacity, your attorneys can act on your behalf.
Business owners may also consider putting a separate document in place to cover what the arrangements will be for the business should it become necessary.
Our specialists can advise you on the type and structure of LPA that is most appropriate for you and your personal circumstances.
A Lasting Power of Attorney can be cancelled at any time as long as the person who created the Lasting Power of Attorney understands the implications of the cancellation.
In such circumstances where these powers need to be withdrawn, we can prepare the necessary paperwork to revoke the powers.
If you’re buying a house with someone, a Declaration of Trust is an essential legal document that sets out each owner’s share of the property. Without a Declaration of Trust, the legal assumption may be that each party holds an equal share. With a Declaration of Trust, everyone knows where they stand in the event of a sale or a breakdown in relationship.
Should I get a Declaration of Trust?
If you’re buying a property with someone else, it’s generally worth having a trust deed in place to formalise any arrangements or agreements you might have made regarding your investment.
Whether you choose to be joint tenants or tenants in common, a trust deed can be created to ensure that your investment is protected. This also applies to anyone who is buying a property with financial assistance from someone else.
We are able to assist and advise with creation, administration, management, and termination of trusts. If you require specialist advice relating to trusts, please contact our team for assistance.
