Articles in ‘Capacity, Care and Court of Protection’ Category

The Government is bringing in legislation that will allow individuals to have their Wills witnessed via video links. The legislation will apply to Wills made since 31 January 2020, the date of the first registered Covid-19 case in England and Wales.

New rules in respect of capital gains tax (CGT) will come into force, for UK residents, affecting all disposals of property from 6 April 2020.

Partner and head of our Private Client team James McNeile examines two important notices issued this month: the first one signalling potential changes to taxation of chargeable gains, and the second concerning the final regulations regarding the UK Trust Register.

The EU Succession Regulation, known as  Brussels IV, came into force on 17 August 2015. Its intention was to simplify issues relating to succession across the EU. Whilst the UK, Ireland and Denmark opted out, it’s still relevant to any UK resident individuals who own assets in any other EU member state.

It is commonly known that trusts are very useful asset protection vehicles, enabling value to be ring-fenced and managed appropriately for the benefit of one or more individuals.  Whilst wide ranging in their use, trusts can be particularly valuable where an individual wishes to make provision for a vulnerable beneficiary.

Land Registry revealed that average house prices in England increased 3.5% in the year to June 2020 with prices hitting a new peak. Increasing house prices means that a vast amount of wealth is usually tied up in property on death which can then be subject to Inheritance Tax.

Following his announcement that there would not be an Autumn Budget for 2020 the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, revealed the latest package of Government support. These measures are to support businesses during the restrictions imposed to limit the expected upswing in coronavirus cases.

Gifting by wealthy family members to their children has soared over the past three months but post-COVID tax planning may not be the primary driver, report our private wealth lawyers.

Our Private Client Partner Mandy Casavant has contributed to the Financial Times regarding a significant slowdown in the probate process due to coronavirus.

Good Morning Britain star Kate Garraway has revealed the nightmare she has faced since her husband went into hospital in March to be treated for Covid. It is a truly heart breaking situation that she faces.

The Office for Tax Simplification has published a report proposing an overhaul to the Capital Gains Tax regime to bring it more in line with income tax.

A long-awaited announcement has been made by Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick.