Miles Herman is a clever, understated lawyer who is at the top of his game.
When a person dies, control over their estate, which comprises all their assets and property not accounted for by a valid existing Will, will vest in either an executor where a Will exists, or administrator where no Will exists or the Will is found to be invalid.
There are certain affairs that either position holder will have to act quickly to handle.
Where a person dies having left a Will, they will appoint an executor to handle their affairs. In most cases this will be a family member. If no Will has been left, or the Will is invalid, an administrator, usually a next of kin, will handle the deceased’s estate.
Certain affairs have to be handled almost immediately. These include informing government bodies such as HMRC and the Department of Work and Pensions that the person has died.
If a nominated executor or an administrator anticipate complexities in handling the estate, or the validity of the Will is likely to be contested, it is always advisable to consult a Wills and Probate Lawyer.
In most cases it is illegal to just hand out parts of a deceased’s estate or assets to beneficiaries without applying for probate. This judicially-recognised measure allows an executor to handle the deceased’s bank accounts and real property.
A person who is named as executor will apply to a court to be granted probate. An administrator in intestacy will also apply to court, but in this instance, they will be seeking Letters of Administration. A standard fee of £215 for estates over £5,000 applies. If a Probate Solicitor is used, this fee is reduced to £155. After application, the person seeking probate will be called to interview at the probate registry. The application must take an inventory and documentation pertaining to all assets belonging to the deceased.
Once granted, the executor or administrator can proceed to distribute assets. Before distribution, any inheritance tax found to be due must be paid to HMRC.
Our solicitors have extensive experience in handling matters relating to trusts, HMRC and tax implications, Power of Attorney and business advice. Our client base is not only domestic, but international, meaning we are well placed to advise on situations where a deceased either had assets overseas or their primary domicile was not in the UK.
We offer a tailored approach that explores and addresses the personal circumstances of our clients. Contact our Wills and Probate Lawyers today on 020 7387 2032 or complete our online enquiry form.
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Miles Herman is a clever, understated lawyer who is at the top of his game.
Richard McConnell carried out conveyance for my family on 4 London flats, 1 sale and 3 purchases. In each instance he was excellent. The attention to detail and communication throughout the process was perfect. I have recommended Richard to several family members and friends who have been extremely pleased. I would have no hesitation in using Richard McConnell and Lewis Nedas in the future should the need arise.
I wanted to take the opportunity as well to thank you for everything that you have done on this case. The result that we got on Monday will have a massive positive impact not only on my life but the lives of all my family including that of my own son. I personally was struggling to hold back the tears when the sentence was being delivered by the judge and I know my father and sister felt the same too. It must be fantastic to work in a way that can have such a positive impact on people’s lives and I want you to know how much it all means to us all. Thanks a million and good luck with all that you do going forward.
Lewis Nedas advised me in a serious case of insider dealing. The lead solicitor dealing with my case was Jeffrey Lewis, who impressed me with his quick grasp of the very complex circumstances. His in-depth knowledge of how the City really works and his long experience of serious financial crime gave me great confidence. But it was also his friendly and supportive attitude, and readiness to take calls (or return them promptly if he was in court) which was very reassuring. I was delighted with the positive result of the case, and the speed and efficiency with which it was handled.
Lewis Nedas Law Limited, led by Jeffrey Lewis, is known as ‘an exceptional firm with a strong team of talented and expert criminal lawyers’. The practice offers a wide range of high-end legal services, including on cases concerning espionage, terrorism, and murder. Siobhain Egan has strong experience in multi-jurisdictional matters; recent highlight engagements concern organ trafficking and terrorism financing, among other matters. Unan Choudhury is noted for his work regarding espionage and murders, while Keith Wood is an expert in High Court contempt proceedings which arise from criminal activity. Other key figures include Miles Herman, who represents clients in complex litigations.
Hands on partner involvement leading a dynamic team who like to think out of the box. Results driven. Clear strategies. They can go toe to toe with the big “City” firms.
