How much does a Will with Pardoes cost?
Cost is largely determined by your requirements and whether you need a simple Will or something more complex Will with Trust arrangements incorporated. The cost will be confirmed either by telephone on initial enquiry, or upon first interview with you.
Why don't I just do a DIY Will?
If you want to make your own Will, provided it is signed and witnessed properly it can be valid. However, Pardoes not only prepare your Will but provide a full bespoke service, which includes amongst other things advice as to tax, guardianship, and possible claims against your Estate. We also hold your completed Will free of charge.
If I am married or in a Civil Partnership why do I need to do a Will? Surely my spouse or Civil Partner gets everything anyway?
This is not necessarily the case, as only the first £200,000 (in the current tax year) of a Deceased's Estate together with personal items, definitely goes to a spouse or Civil Partner. Anything in excess of this may also be transferred to the spouse or Civil Partner but it depends upon what other family has survived the Deceased.
I am living with my Partner and I am unmarried/not in a Civil Partnership, surely as my common law spouse/Civil Partner they get everything if I die?
If you are unmarried or not in Civil Partnership, and are co-habiting with someone, that person will not receive anything (without resorting to court proceedings) unless you make a valid Will. Conversely they also may have valid claims against your Estate if you do not wish them to receive anything, and therefore it is crucial that a valid Will is prepared.
I think I may qualify for Legal Aid; can I make a Will with Legal Aid?
Provided that you are financial eligibility for Legal Aid, and you are over 75 or are appointing a guardian for children under 18, then it may be possible for the costs to be covered by Public Funding. On first interview this funding issue will be discussed with you.
What kind of things do I put in my Will?
You need to appoint executors (the people who manage your affairs once you have passed away) and guardians (to look after your children under 18). You can give gifts of personal items such as jewellery or money to family, friends, or charity, and you also can leave directions as to your funeral wishes.
What happens to someone's assets when they pass away?
This depends on whether or not they have left a valid Will, as without a Will their Estate will be dealt with in accordance with the rules of Intestacy.
What is a Grant of Probate?
A Grant of Probate is the formal document confirming the appointment of the Executors and that the Will has been validly accepted by the Probate Registry. The Grant is normally required to deal with assets belonging to the Estate.
What if there was no Will?
A Grant of Letters of Administration is required instead of a Grant of Probate and appoints Administrators to deal with the Estate instead of Executors.
What is Inheritance Tax?
If your asset value exceeds £312,000 (in the current tax year), the amount above this may attract Inheritance Tax at 40% unless it passes to exempt beneficiaries such as a spouse/civil partner or Charity.
