Resources
Browse our range of resources and insightful tips and advice from the legal experts at Percy Hughes & Roberts.
Click on the resources below for more information.
The team at Percy Hughes & Roberts specialises in Trusts, Wills, and Probate services. Here, we discuss the most significant legal pitfalls that people face when planning for the administration of an estate and how you can avoid them.
There are many potential applications for a Declaration of Trust and, if you are entering into a situation involving significant financial risk - such as buying or investing in property, or gifting a deposit to a relative - it can be useful to understand how they work. Here, the expert trusts lawyers at Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors explain some of the most common applications of a Declaration of Trust, why you should consider one, and how the process works.
When a person dies, a process of estate administration begins. The person's assets are valued, their debts are paid, and their belongings are passed on to the people named in their will. However, before this can happen, the will often needs to go through a legal process called probate.
Writing a last will and testament without professional support can be a daunting task. This checklist is designed to guide you through the process, making it easier to create a will that reflects your values and provides peace of mind for those you leave behind. We have also provided tick boxes next to each item if you wish to print this page out.
As the executor of an estate, you are entrusted with the responsibility of carrying out the wishes of a deceased person and managing their estate in accordance with the law. The process of administering a will or trust involves various legal, financial, and administrative tasks that must be handled with care and precision.
In this guide, the probate experts at Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors aim to offer clarity on what a probate lawyer does and the services that they can offer. If you have any questions we have not answered, our expert Wills, Trusts & Probate solicitors are happy to speak to you regarding your query and provide the legal services you need.
In this guide, the expert landlord solicitors at Percy Hughes & Roberts explain what a rent increase notice is, when it can be issued, and the legal steps landlords must take to increase the rent they charge legitimately.
In this guide, the experts at Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors will explore the options available to executors who wish to step down, how this impacts the administration of the estate, and the legal processes involved in ensuring the estate is managed effectively.
When all beneficiaries named in a will have passed away, it creates a unique set of challenges for those who must administer the estate. Under usual circumstances, the deceased's estate assets are distributed directly to each named beneficiary according to the person's will.
As an executor, one of your key responsibilities is effectively communicating with the beneficiaries of a will after a death. In this guide, we explain how to write a letter to beneficiaries of a will.
A last will and testament is a legal document that offers instructions for what should happen after you die. For most people, that means deciding who will inherit your belongings, including any assets, savings or property you own. It can also give instructions for your funeral arrangements, or establish a trust to manage assets like a business, an art collection or a family home in the long term.
Landlords have a legal and ethical duty to keep their rental properties safe and secure for tenants. Here, we outline the key responsibilities every landlord must meet to maintain a safe and comfortable home for tenants.
Understanding the legalities of renting to tenants who rely on benefits is crucial for private landlords in the UK. Some landlords wish to avoid renting to these tenants altogether, but it is important to meet the legal requirements when refusing to rent and avoid the risk of discrimination.
A key responsibility of landlords is to ensure their property has a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Here, our experts explain what an EPC is, how to obtain one as a landlord, and the consequences of not having one.
Selling a property during an existing tenancy agreement can present unique challenges and considerations for landlords. Here, our experts explain whether landlords can sell a residential property while it is tenanted.
As a landlord, understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding tenancy deposits is crucial. A common question we face from landlords is whether they can claim more than the deposit at the end of the tenancy - to cover damage to the property or rent arrears, for example.
When drafting a will, one of the most significant decisions you can make involves the type of gifts you choose to leave behind. Among the various options available, pecuniary gifts provide a straightforward and effective means to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
The death of a loved one can be a challenging time, and is often accompanied by a range of administrative tasks that may seem overwhelming. Some of the most pressing questions for many are about the timeline for beneficiary notification - in order words, when should beneficiaries of a will be notified about the death?
When setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), understanding the various roles involved is crucial if you want to ensure that your wishes are executed smoothly. One key role that is often overlooked is that of the correspondent.
Understanding whether a landlord can move a tenant’s personal belongings without permission is crucial for maintaining a lawful and respectful landlord-tenant relationship.
Dealing with the death of a spouse is incredibly difficult, and the added responsibilities of managing their affairs during this time of grief can feel overwhelming
Maintaining a reliable supply of hot water is one of the fundamental responsibilities of a landlord in the UK. This is not just about tenant comfort - providing utilities like a water heating system and keeping them in proper working order is a legal requirement under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. If a boiler breaks, it is the landlord's responsibility to fix it, but it is not always easy to arrange this quickly.
Owning a rental property in the UK involves navigating a number of responsibilities and legal requirements, particularly when it comes to repairs and maintenance. For landlords, one crucial aspect of this management is the handling of receipts for repairs. Here, we explain whether landlords are required by law to provide receipts after repairs.
The probate experts at Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors explain what happens after probate is granted, and how executors should manage this process.
Managing the nuances of a landlord and tenant relationship can often feel like a balancing act, especially when it comes to the boundaries of tenancy deposits. For landlords, this includes understanding what you can deduct from a tenancy deposit.
Whether you aim to safeguard your personal property for the benefit of your family, support charitable organisations, or pass down cherished items, you can do so by making a legacy in your will. Here, we explain exactly what a legacy in a will is, and how the right legacy can be a lasting symbol of your life.
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) can be a useful option when planning for the future, as it can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. However, if you are considering relying on an LPA, it is vital that you understand when it can come to an end. This may be by choice or triggered automatically after a change in circumstance.
In the realm of trust law and estate planning, understanding the requirement to register a trust with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is vitally important. This is particularly true for bare trusts, a common tool in asset management and inheritance planning.
Losing a loved one is invariably a challenging time, marked not only by grief but also by the responsibility of managing their affairs. One of the most crucial steps in this process is trying to find a will. When someone dies, the appointed executor of their estate will need a copy of their will to carry out their final wishes.
When a loved one passes away, the task of managing and distributing their estate belongs to certain chosen individuals. One of these tasks includes informing the beneficiaries of the death and their share of the estate. Here, we explain who has the legal responsibility to inform beneficiaries of a person's will that they have died.
Mirror wills can offer a practical and secure way for married couples to plan their estates together. However, they can sometimes be complex and are not suitable for everyone. In this short guide, we answer: what are mirror wills for married couples, and when should you consider getting one?
As a landlord, deciding whether to renew a tenancy agreement is a key part of managing your property. This choice not only affects your relationship with your tenant; there are also important legal aspects to consider.
Landlords need to be cautious when selecting their tenants to ensure they protect themselves and their properties from potential issues. However, if landlords wish to refuse to rent to prospective tenants, they must ensure they do so legally. There are several circumstances in which refusing to rent to a tenant would constitute unlawful discrimination. In this guide, we explore the reasons landlords can and cannot refuse to rent to someone in the UK.
While it may seem like the easiest solution to get rid of troublesome tenants, changing the locks of your property without giving reasonable notice to tenants can lead to serious legal complications. Here, we discuss whether landlords can change locks without notice in the UK.
Under what circumstances can a landlord enter without permission from the tenant? The landlord law experts from Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors explain.
Can a landlord ask for bank statements before leasing a property? Here, the landlord law experts at Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors offer guidance.
Can a landlord renovate a property while it is occupied by tenants? The landlord law experts at Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors have the answer.
The estate planning experts at PHR Solicitors explain how a bare trust works and how it can offer more control over your assets when you die. Learn more.
Estate planning is a crucial aspect of safeguarding your assets for your loved ones to enjoy after you die. However, deciding how to protect your belongings can be complicated, especially when there are a number of options available. In this brief guide, we explain two of the main options – Living Trusts and Wills.
Placing property into a trust can ensure your loved ones benefit from your home after you die, and may lower the amount of Inheritance Tax they need to pay. However, this area of law can be complicated, so it is important to understand this legal tool and the relevant tax implications before you consider putting property into a trust.
Discretionary Trusts are a crucial but often misunderstood aspect of estate planning. In this guide, our experts explain exactly how they work and for whom they are best suited.
A Protective Property Trust Will is an essential legal tool that aims to safeguard property for your loved ones, especially in the context of long-term care fees. Here, our experts discuss Protective Property Trusts and whom they are designed to help.
Understanding the nuances of property rights can be difficult at times, especially when you are planning to get married. Here, we explain exactly what a declaration of trust is in relation to property, and how a marriage can affect it.
Trusts are a vitally important part of estate planning, enabling you to manage, protect, and distribute assets according to your specific guidelines. At the heart of every trust are the roles of trustee and beneficiary. Here, we answer the frequently asked question, 'Can a trustee be a beneficiary of the same trust?'
Setting up a trust can be an excellent way to plan for the future. Before you do so, however, you need to understand all of the terms and phrases used within this area of law. Here, our experts explain exactly what the settlor of a trust is.
Evicting a tenant can be a daunting and complex process for landlords. Fortunately, there are options that can ensure that the process runs as smoothly as possible, often without the need to go to court. Here, the landlord law experts at Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors explain all of the options that will allow you to evict a tenant here.
Two of the most important roles in estate planning and administration are the executor and trustee. While their functions may seem similar at first, it is crucial to understand the differences between the two.
The legal considerations surrounding rent increases can impact both landlords and tenants, so it is essential to understand the rules and regulations that govern a rent rise. While landlords want to maximise their income, there are certain restrictions and limits on increased rent. In this brief guide, we explain how much landlords can increase rent by and the laws that apply.
As a landlord, one of the most difficult challenges you can face is dealing with squatters who occupy your property without permission. The expert landlord solicitors at Percy Hughes & Roberts can provide you with all the information you need to evict squatters safely and legally.
When a loved one passes away, the administration of their estate can be a complex and overwhelming process. During the period of estate administration, beneficiaries often have questions regarding their rights, the estate assets, and the responsibilities of the executor, including what they must disclose.
When it comes to selling or buying a property as a landlord, there are various factors that can influence potential market value and desirability. One such factor is the presence of a sitting tenant. In this brief guide, the experts at Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors explain what a sitting tenant is, what legal rights they have, and how their presence can devalue a property.
Choosing an ideal executor for your last will and testament is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration. In this guide, we explore the responsibilities of an executor and explain why some people opt to appoint a solicitor to carry out their final wishes.
As a residential landlord, understanding landlord insurance is essential. While it is not a legal requirement, insurance can help you to protect your investment property and your business against a range of risks, damages and unforeseen problems. In this guide, the expert landlord solicitors at Percy Hughes & Roberts explain exactly what type of insurance a landlord needs.
A huge part of an executor’s responsibilities involves the sale of property after a loved one has passed away. A lot of questions commonly arise regarding probate property matters: can the executor of a will sell property without all the beneficiaries approving first? How much say does the executor have over the estate?
Figuring out whether you need probate after a loved one’s death can be complicated during an already stressful time. This is why it is important to understand the probate threshold and how to properly value an estate. Our expert probate solicitors explain everything you need to know in this short guide.
When writing a will, creating a trust is a great way to ensure your dependents are cared for long after your death. Trusts and the role of trustees can be a little confusing, however, as there are many different types of trusts to suit different requirements. In this short guide, the experts at Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors explain the role of will trustees, the duties associated with the role, how you should choose a suitable trustee, and the restrictions that typically apply.
Being named as an executor of a will carries a number of important responsibilities. Often, dealing with the responsibilities of estate administration can result in executors needing to spend money, and because their control over the estate is limited, they can end up out of pocket. Here, we explain what expenses an executor can claim back from the estate, and how to do so.
When do landlords have a duty of care to neighbours, and when must they handle bad tenant behaviour? Learn the answers here from PHR Solicitors.
Without the right advice, estate planning can be complicated. There are many legal pitfalls and complicated terms to understand, but it is crucial to get it right. Otherwise, your will may not be legally valid; you must be careful in order to ensure your loved ones receive what they are entitled to when you pass away.
Dealing with Inheritance Tax (IHT) can be one of the most daunting parts of the probate process. The standard Inheritance Tax rate is high, meaning that IHT liability can cost your loved ones thousands of pounds after you die. However, with some careful planning, it is possible to reduce or completely avoid your IHT liability. In this brief guide, the experts at Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors detail how much Inheritance Tax is in the UK, and potential ways to minimise your bill.
It may not be the first thing on your mind when you lose a loved one, but keeping up with their utility bills and other ongoing or outstanding payments after death is vitally important. This brief guide will take some of the guesswork out of what debts and bills need to be paid when a person dies.
How much money can be given to a family member as a gift? UK law can be complex. Here, the experts at Percy Hughes and Roberts Solicitors explain.
When preparing to make a Will, many people ask whether an Executor can also be a Beneficiary. The short answer is yes, it is perfectly normal and legal to name a Beneficiary as an Executor of a Will. In this guide we explain what both roles entail and cover any other restrictions Executors and Beneficiaries may face.
As a landlord, it is important to understand all of the various deadlines and timeframes to ensure you always stay on the right side of the law. This is especially important at the end of a tenancy. Here, our experts discuss how long a tenant can remain in a property after the tenancy agreement expires.
One of the most important aspects of estate planning is deciding who will be your executor. This will be the person to carry out your final wishes after you die. A question we often get asked is whether this individual can decide who gets what after you pass away. We explain everything you need to know in this brief guide.
How long do landlords have to fix problems in the UK and what happens if they don’t make repairs in time? Learn more in this legal guide from PHR Solicitors.
Wills are one of the most important ways for people to protect their assets and ensure their family will be looked after in the event of their deaths - but despite this, many in the UK may not be putting as much thought into their wills and estate planning as they should.
A section 8 notice is also called a “notice seeking possession of a property let on an assured tenancy or an assured agricultural occupancy”, and is a process for a landlord to evict a tenant who has an assured shorthold tenancy and has broken one or more covenants of their tenancy agreement.
Understanding what you can and cannot do after a death is vitally important. Here, we explain whether you can sell a house before probate and what you should consider when executing the estate of a deceased person.
Going to court to evict a tenant is usually a last resort, but unfortunately, it is sometimes a necessity for landlords. Read this guide on who pays the costs in the UK.
Landlords are often faced with many legal pitfalls that can initially appear complicated and stressful. Find out how a well drafted tenancy agreement can alleviate many of these issues. Read more here.
The legal experts at Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors explain what to do if a tenant stops paying rent, and how landlords can respond. Read more here.
Does a grant of probate show the value of an estate? Learn the answer and other things you should know about probate from PHR Solicitors. Read now.
When do you need a grant of probate? If you are unfamiliar with the process of dealing with a loved one’s estate after they die, PHR Solicitors' guide can help.
What is the “7-Year Rule” in inheritance tax and how can it decrease your tax liability after you die? PHR solicitors’ expert probate team explains.
The probate experts at Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors explain the term “grant de bonis non administratis” and when it might apply to the probate process.
The expert probate solicitors at Percy Hughes and Roberts explain who administers the estate of a bankrupt person and how an estate's debts are settled.
How long does the court of protection process take? Here, the experts at PHR Solicitors explain the process and how long you might need to wait.
Understanding the grant of representation process, and particularly whether you need letters of administration or a grant of probate, can help ease the stress of what is a traumatic time. Our experts explain what is involved in the process here.
It is a common misconception that debt dies with an individual. Contrary to popular belief, debts are instead passed onto the estate and become the responsibility of the executors of the deceased’s will. This short guide explains what happens to a bankrupt estate after a death.
Dealing with the death of a loved one can be a challenging time, particularly with all of the legal pitfalls that it presents. In our article, we explain some of the legal aspects involved, and answer the question: how long does it take to get a grant of probate?
There are many laws to protect individuals in the UK from facing discrimination, but many businesses still need to take steps in order to ensure that transgender individuals in the workplace feel safe and comfortable.
This December, Percy Hughes & Roberts’ Head of Employment Law is offering businesses insight into how to minimise any absences while also addressing any legitimate leave to help ease the pressure on your workforce.
Paying off debt is probably the last thing you consider when a loved one passes away, but it is an important subject and one that is rarely spoken about. Here, our experts explain what happens to debt when someone dies.
People with different backgrounds, identities and experiences can be extremely valuable for a workforce. They result in new perspectives, broader understanding, and in most cases, a more well-rounded and inclusive team.
As social media becomes more prevalent, it is crucial employers remind staff about what is and isn’t acceptable online. Here, we give employers insight into company social media policies and how much you can limit what your employees can do online.
Promoting and supporting diversity in the workplace is a vital part of good management. In this guide, we explain how to make sure you are working towards diversity, equality, and inclusivity as an employer.
In this guide, we help employers understand the risks of sexual discrimination and harassment, explain the law surrounding both issues, and give practical steps to help ensure your workplace is as safe as possible.
What steps must be taken when bringing a staff member back from furlough? PHR Solicitors has prepared a checklist for businesses with furloughed staff to follow, which lays out the step-by-step process for ensuring a smooth transition back to regular work.
If your business employs people, it is crucial you understand how the employment contract establishes the rights and responsibilities of both the employee and the employer. Many businesses often overlook the importance of the contract of employment and that can lead to legal issues should a problem arise in the future.
Many cases of employee misconduct can be dealt with informally, away from any strict procedures. However, if an employee is repeatedly displaying serious misconduct issues, you may need to follow the disciplinary process set out in your employment policies. We explain the process and potential pitfalls here.
It is essential that employers understand how to manage absence in the workplace in order to support your staff, whilst also minimising the impact on your business. This sickness absence guide outlines everything you need to know about managing absence.
If you die without a valid will, your property will be shared out according to certain rules. These are called the rules of intestacy. Here, we explain exactly what that means for you and your family.
What can businesses do if a furloughed employee refuses to return to work? How much notice do employers need to give employees for returning? Our experts answer all of your employment law furlough questions here.
Our lives are being becoming increasingly digital, so how do we protect our online belongings in our Will?
The pandemic has changed how we operate in many areas of law, but simultaneous exchange and completion could be a positive step for both property buyers and sellers.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced a stamp duty holiday for property buyers in England and Northern Ireland, effective immediately.
The outbreak of coronavirus earlier this year forced the UK into lockdown for the best part of four months. We discuss what the current requirements for witnessing a will are.
If someone lacks the mental capacity to make their own financial or welfare decisions, it is likely they lack the ability to make a will. This is where a statutory will is necessary.
A TUPE or Transfer of Undertakings refers to a set of regulations relating to business ownership. They are of crucial importance when ownership of a business is transferred.
Our probate experts list all of the deadlines you should consider when applying for probate.
If someone with dementia becomes too ill to make informed decisions, you can take on the role of decision-maker by becoming their deputy.
If you are selling a house as an attorney for someone it is important to check which kind of Power of Attorney you have. To act on the sale of a property you have to have been appointed in an EPA or a Property and Financial LPA.
Research shows that two in three UK residents do not have a valid will. What would happen if they were to die without one?
Writing a will is something that every person at some stage in their life needs to think about, but actually knowing how to correctly write one is a common issue. In this guide, we explain 7 primary factors people should consider before they begin the will writing process.
With dementia on the rise, the risk of losing mental capacity with no lasting power of attorney in place is increasing.
There are a number of different life events that could impact your will. This post considers some of the most common reasons that you might need to change the document to ensure it is up to date, as it might be that you created your will years ago and don’t remember the exact instructions for executors.
People in later life are unlocking the value of their property and turning it into a lump sum, but how does equity release affect the inheritance of your family?
This guide will help you understand what needs to be done when dealing with the estate of someone who has died.
Before you agree to becoming an one, find out more about some of the key duties an executor is expected to carry out after a death.
Our Wills and Probate team have compiled the most common mistakes they see when dealing with wills.
Last winter saw record numbers of deaths in England and Wales.
In a survey we ran to gather the UK public’s thoughts on writing a will, a staggering 67% admitted to not having a will in place, placing the legacy that they have spent their entire lives building up under threat.
Take a closer look at our guide to measures that you or your business must take before entering a contract. Follow these ten steps provided by PHR and avoid unnecessary contractual issues.
In this article, we explain the unfortunate topic of later life care, the power of an attorney and dealing with dementia in the family. This is a topic that no one really wants to think about, but at some stage has to. Take a closer look at how PHR can help you in this step-by-step guide.
Winter should be a time for family and friends, but for many it turns into a nightmare.
DIY wills are on the rise, but they are potentially very dangerous for you and your estate.
Under English and Welsh law, an individual can give money, property and other assets to anyone they wish as part of their will.
If you applied to register a power of attorney from April 1st 2013 to March 31st 2017 you may able to get part of your application fee back.
A study has shown that two in three UK residents, including 42% of over 55s, do not have a will.
Here is our advice for parents on planning for the future once they have children.
Many people believe they have accounted for everything they own in their will, only to find that sometimes some assets slip through the net.
When a loved one passes away, the number of decisions to be made and the weight of responsibility upon you can feel overwhelming. To help you during this difficult time, we have compiled a step-by-step guide to assist you throughout the process.
This brief guide will answer the questions you may have regarding holiday pay.
Figures from Farm Safety Week suggest that machinery and working at heights are major causes of farming accidents.
Controversial personal injury reforms have been postponed for the second time in two months.
Our recent survey found that employees are scared to report injuries in the workplace because they are worried to make their employer angry.
Data for 2018 accidents has been released, with 5,900 incidents involving drivers over the alcohol limit.
This brief guide will explain what clinical negligence is, what sort of injuries it includes and how to start a claim for compensation.
What happens if you have an accident that was not your fault during the hazardous winter months?
Giving birth should be a magical moment, but for some, it ends in tragedy.
This guide will take a closer look at commercial property leases, providing advice on renewal and how to avoid common pitfalls that some businesses fall into.
Breaking a contract with a problematic tenant can sometimes be a stressful experience. Read PHR's guide to dealing with such a situation.
Buying a house is a huge financial commitment, and one that is renowned for being both time consuming and stressful. Read PHR's step-by-step journey through the entire buying process, helping to ease the burden at this already stressful time.
Many homebuyers have taken to doing their own conveyancing to save money, but it is leading to huge problems. Here, we explain what those problems are.
Dismissing an employee is a challenging, yet essential part of working life for an employer. In this guide, PHR provide an in-depth guide on the reasons for dismissal of employees and how to ensure these dismissals are justified and fair.
Rudeness and clashing personalities is a growing problem within the workplace, but don't panic! Take a look at this guide as we explain how you can handle, resolve and permanently minimise conflict.
We look closely at the notion of online monitoring in the workplace, advising businesses on existing privacy rules and how to ensure they are compliant
A TUPE or Transfer of Undertakings refers to a set of regulations relating to business ownership. They are of crucial importance when ownership of a business is transferred.
People are often misadvised or told incorrect information when dealing with employment law. To avoid crucial mistakes in relation to this, take a look as we banish the 10 most common myths of employment law to make sure when it comes to the crunch, you wont be losing out.
Social media is an ever-increasing part of daily life for both businesses and employees, but are you going about it the right way? Take a look at our article as we explain how your business and your employees can get the most out of social media platforms, without running into legal trouble in the process.
The Deregulation Act 2015 (DA) introduced changes which came into force on the 1st October 2015 which apply only to Assured Shorthold Tenancies (AST) granted after this date. Read our guide to the changes.
Falling from height at work can lead to severe injuries which can have devastating and lasting effects. Find out if you have a workplace accident claim for falling from height at work.
What does insolvency mean for employees? Insolvency is a common issue within business and it is usually the employees left not knowing where to turn. Take a look at this guide to give employees the legal know how if faced with the issue of insolvency.
