The making of a Will is a very important matter which is all too often overlooked. We can assure clients from our own experience that the making of a Will does not lead to the client passing away any earlier! On the other hand, if a Will is not made it can lead to all sorts of difficulties which the deceased could never have envisaged. There are common misconceptions as to what happens to a person's property on death. Grieving relations and friends may find it difficult or embarrassing to sort out the problems created.

A Will can be as simple or as complicated as you wish so long as it has clarity (provisions of a Will can be deemed "void for uncertainty") Clifford Smith & Buchanan are able to assess your situation and your requirements, advise you as to the relevant legal issues and draw your Will in accordance with your directions.

One important issue to be taken into consideration in relation to the preparation of your Will and the putting in order of your affairs generally is the likely incidence of tax, particularly Inheritance Tax. Significant savings in tax can legitimately be made by correct tax planning.

During your lifetime you may be required to, or find it convenient to, appoint another trusted person to deal with all or some of your affairs. Powers of Attorney have been used for many years in such situations and there are now also available Lasting Powers of Attorney when circumstances require or dictate that these should be used. Specialist advice is available in relation to these matters and the cost of such advice will not be prohibitive particularly when considered against the importance of the matters involved.