Rebecca at Illuminate Legal is, like many of us, looking forward to a lovely summer ahead! That said, she has been really busy in the last few months with clients tying up loose ends and signing up documents before those clients embark on a carefree summer, made all the more carefree with the knowledge that finally this year, they got on and made that Will (or updated it) or Lasting Power of Attorney; many have had these items on their ‘to do’ list since they got married, had a baby, inherited some money or retired, but they are now all set to feel a little bit pleased with themselves (!) that they have finally got on and made those plans with the assistance of an experienced and professional advisor.
It’s not only Rebecca that’s been busy. The field of specialism at Illuminate Legal is Wills, Probate, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Elderly Client work and this area has most definitely been in the spotlight in recent weeks and months. First, some months ago we saw a proposed increase in court probate fees. The announcement of next month’s General Election has put pay to this fee increase for now, but practitioners and clients alike were most concerned about the disproportionate increase in fees for the probate process which was perceived as an increase in ‘death tax’, particularly for the largest of estates. We have also seen political parties touting their plans for care in later life; detailed plans for this stage of life will no doubt come to the fore whoever succeeds on 8th June. It is a worrying time for people. One piece of good news is that registration fees for Lasting Powers of Attorney have been reduced slightly, which will hopefully encourage a few more people to consider preparing these valuable documents which can safeguard family plans in the event of mental incapacity in the future.
Rebecca prides herself on keeping up to date with what’s going on. She says:-
‘When I was training to become a solicitor a very wise partner at my then firm said to me “I don’t make the law, I just work with it” and I have always found this a useful mantra to follow. We don’t know quite what the future will hold for elderly care or indeed probate fees. What we do know is that professionally made plans, including Wills, that are regularly reviewed, can help our clients navigate their way as they make plans to protect their families in the future.”
From client feedback it seems that Illuminate Legal is offering something a little bit different. Clients have enjoyed Rebecca’s home visits and evening appointments, which they say has enabled them to feel at ease in their home environment when discussing something that can be a tricky topic for families. Please drop Rebecca a line or give her a call using the details below if you feel that she could help you.
Rebecca Reid, Illuminate Legal Limited, Odiham, Hampshire
