Frequently Asked Questions

A Will sets out who should inherit your assets after you die, but it generally only takes effect after probate and usually offers no protection in the meantime.

A Trust can operate during your lifetime and after death, helping to protect assets and provide greater control — particularly in situations involving second marriages, vulnerable beneficiaries, or inheritance tax planning.

Estate planning is about making sure your wishes are carried out clearly and efficiently.

For many families, the need arises when circumstances become more complex — for example:

• owning a property
• having children or step-children
• second marriages or blended families
• wanting to reduce inheritance tax
• wanting greater control over how assets are passed on

Even relatively straightforward estates can benefit from clear planning, helping to avoid delays, uncertainty, and unnecessary stress for family members.

If you're unsure whether estate planning is appropriate for your situation, an initial conversation can help clarify your options.

While it’s sensible to include backup beneficiaries, we’ll help you strike the right balance between being prepared and overcomplicating things.

Estate planning should be robust and practical - not based on highly unlikely scenarios.

No - that’s our job.

We’ll explain the key points in plain English and make sure you understand the practical effect of the documents. You don’t need to master the technical detail to feel confident about the outcome.

Quite the opposite.

Good estate planning reduces the legal, financial, and emotional burden on loved ones. Trusts add structure and clarity, and where appropriate we can meet with your children in the future to explain their roles and responsibilities.

We work on a fixed-fee basis and are transparent about costs from the outset.

When comparing fees, it’s important to consider the scope of advice, level of expertise, and long-term outcomes — not just the initial price.

The 10-year periodic charge only applies if a trust exceeds the nil-rate band (currently £325,000).

In many cases, no charge arises. Where it does apply, it is often significantly lower than the inheritance tax that might otherwise arise. We’ll explain this clearly and show examples where helpful.

Of course.

Estate planning is an important decision, and there’s no pressure to proceed. If you’re unsure, it’s often because a question hasn’t been fully answered - and we’re always happy to clarify things so you can decide with confidence.

No.

Even if most of your wealth is tied up in your home, proper planning can make a significant difference - helping to avoid delays, unnecessary tax, and stress for your family.

Usually not.

Most estate plans are completed over a small number of meetings. We handle the technical work - you focus on decisions that matter.

Yes. We regularly work alongside financial advisers, accountants, and other professionals to ensure estate planning fits smoothly within a client’s wider arrangements, while respecting existing relationships.