You may think that if a person has a dementia diagnosis, they can no longer make a Will. In many cases, this could be true, but a qualified and experienced professional may be able to help. Read on for helpful guidance about the test for capacity to make a Will.

The Ministry of Justice has decided to increase most England and Wales court fees by 10% in May 2024. The standard probate fee will be raised by £27 to £300.

Our blog explains probate costs with hints and tips for what to do if you are an executor.

Behind every probate application is a bereaved family trying to organise their affairs at what can be a very sensitive time. HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) aims to make the process of applying for probate as easy as possible for members of the public and probate professionals.

Here are a few top tips to help you avoid delays.

This is a common question often asked by clients and comes from a misconception that there’s a conflict between the two roles.

Here’s what you need to know:

A trust of property in your Will can safeguard your share of your family home in certain situations. Our blog explains how a property trust in your Will could benefit your family.

You may think that Will trusts are only for the super-wealthy, but this is a misconception. We explain all you need to know with a case study example.

Using a preprinted form from your local post office to write your Will may seem like an inexpensive option. But did you know that errors or ambiguity could create hassle and delay or mean your wishes can’t be followed?

Here are the top 5 mistakes we come across regularly:

Writing your own Will may seem like money saving option. Our team regularly review handwritten Wills that contain minor (and major) errors that mean they are not valid or - worse still - don't have the effect that the Will maker intended. This article explains some of the pitfalls.

On 26 July 2023 the statutory legacy will increase from £270,000 to £322,000. Our blog explains the change and why it’s so essential to make a Will, regardless of the size of your estate.

As life moves forward, your Will may need to be updated to ensure it represents your wishes and intentions. Life has an inevitable conclusion. We can’t know our expiry date. It’s sensible to plan for now and review your plans if your circumstances change.

Every family is unique. Rachael and David put off making a Will for over a decade because they thought it would be too stressful and expensive. They’re not married to each other, they have children together and from previous relationships. Here’s their story….

Digital assets are often overlooked when making a Will. Some digital assets have a monetary value; others don’t, but may have sentimental value. Find out more here.

Video calls are an excellent substitute for a face-to-face meeting… less time away from home or work, no travelling, no fuel cost, no parking fees and you can make your own coffee, just how you like it! Find out how simple and straightforward making a Will using video calling can be.

Carisma Wills initial advice and first meeting is free, so should you suspect a catch? Find out why we’re happy to answer all your queries for free…

Did you know anyone can call themself a Willwriter? Estate planning is not regulated like other legal and financial services, so take care when choosing the firm to write your Will. Here’s what to look for:

Using a stationery form to write your Will may seem like an inexpensive option. Our team regularly review handwritten Wills that contain minor (and major) errors that mean they are not valid or - worse still - don't have the effect that the Will maker intended.

Reviewing your Will at key times in your life is crucial and any amendments are made promptly as your circumstances change.

According to a 2020 study by the Cremation Institute, nearly 90 percent of all cryptocurrency owners are worried about what will happen to their crypto when they die but fail to make provision so it is not lost forever.

Sorting your Will might feel like a major life event, but it’s simply part of sensible financial planning. Here’s a personal account of events that triggered an update to a Will and how we can support you as you make your choices.