Private Client Archives - Bowling & Co Solicitors

Inheritance Act Claims and Letters of Wishes: Managing Risk in Estate Planning

Even a carefully drafted will does not always bring matters to an end. The Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 allows certain people to apply to the court for financial provision if a will or the intestacy rules fail to make reasonable provision for them. One practical way to reduce the risk of disputes is to use a well-thought-out Letter of Wishes. This article explains how the 1975 Act works, who can bring a claim, and how Letters of Wishes can help provide clarity and context after death.…

Is your Will still fit for purpose?

January 30, 2026
Manal Fouad
General News, Family, Private Client, General

The start of a new year is often a prompt to get things in order - reviewing finances, updating records and planning for the year ahead. One important document that is often overlooked after it’s been signed, however, is a Will. Many people assume that once a Will is in place, the job is done and it can be forgotten about. In reality, even a well-drafted Will can cause significant difficulty if it is outdated, unclear, or cannot be located when it is needed. We recently dealt with a matter…

The Hidden Struggles Executors Face with Banks During Probate

Settling a loved one’s estate is never easy. Executors take on the legal responsibility of managing the deceased’s financial affairs — from closing bank accounts to distributing assets — all while grieving. Unfortunately, a recent Which? report shows that many banks are making this process far more difficult than it needs to be. Inconsistent Processes Create Uncertainty Every bank seems to have its own probate rules, forms, and timelines. What one institution will release without a grant of probate, another will insist requires full legal documentation — even for small…

Are we heading for an Incapacity Crisis?

The UK is ‘sleepwalking’ towards a dementia crisis with millions of people failing to take steps to prepare for losing mental capacity, a solicitors organisation has warned.

The importance of getting independent legal advice

December 5, 2024
Mert Sumbul
Dispute Resolution, Risk Management, Property Market News, General News, Property Law, Private Client

There are numerous situations where seeking independent legal advice is not only advisable but essential to protect the rights, interests, and well-being of the individuals and businesses involved.

Declaration of Trust and the enforcement of charging orders

October 3, 2024
Manal Fouad
Property Market News, Property Law, Residential, Private Client

A recent case considering the enforcement of charging orders and the validity of a Declaration of Trust has highlighted the complexities surrounding property and trust matters in an insolvency.

What Does a Labour Government Mean for The Residential Property Market?

September 25, 2024
Rohan Bharadia
Property Market News, Property Law, Residential, Private Client

Now that a few months have passed since Labour’s landslide victory in the General Election in May, many are wondering what the potential changes are, with regards to the property market.

Emergency Power of Attorney: when and how to obtain it

December 15, 2023
Manal Fouad
Private Client

The Court of Protection will determine if an individual has the mental capacity to make specific decisions and if not, they will issue an emergency Power of Attorney.

Renting a commercial property: tenant responsibilities

Renting a commercial property? Legal advice is crucial for all tenants looking to navigate complex commercial leasing terms. Read more.

Inheritance Tax: Strategies to Secure Your Family’s Financial Future

November 8, 2023
Manal Fouad
Family, Private Client

There has been speculation in the media for the past few years about Inheritance tax (IHT) as a potential target for tax reform, but so far this has not come to fruition. People are fearful of the bills they will leave for their families, but the reality is that many who worry fall well below the threshold at which IHT is payable. But with IHT charged at 40 per cent it’s certainly worth doing a regular check on where you stand, as those who could be liable can minimise their liability by taking advice and planning ahead.

Private Client