1   Assessment and Planning

It is Important to talk.  A meeting is arranged to discuss the issues in confidence in a relaxed, open and thoughtful manner. There is typically some thinking aloud and the questioning of assumptions in order to set out an initial plan.  The Principal players are you and your spouse or partner; other views can also be tested at a later stage if considered desirable or necessary. 

Some basics are established:

1.   Is there a Will in existence

2.   Solicitor, beneficiaries, logistics

3.   Financial Assets and access

4.   Property related matters

5.   Recovery plan for online access - communication

6.   Non-Financial Assets, items and objects, their value and history

7.   Know tax and related implications

8.   Life-laundry items, paperwork and the stuff of ages 

This exercise, assisted by easy forms and aids, builds up the outline of a plan.  We write up the outline plan for you to consider and discuss.  The outcome is a planning document that should be very instructive.

2 Acting on the Plan

The Planning document should provide a road-map for this phase. The appointment of an appropriate solicitor if required, the creating or revision of a Will, further exploration of tax implications and so on. Of particular note here is the plan for non-financial assets and items of value.

Having discussed the alternatives of objects or cash, this is when we establish a plan for items of value, artwork and collected artefacts and furniture. If disposal is preferable, where and whom can offer best value; we are able to manage this process via auction houses, specialist dealers and collectors. Alternatively, if passing these items on to beneficiaries is best desired, to whom, when and with what message.

3 Communication

Ensuring available access to e-mail accounts, social media sites, phones and other domestic accounts can save a lot of time and tedious detective work when the owner is no longer at hand to assist.  Communication technology is such a major part of all of our daily transactions, from shopping to social interaction.

Facilitation, discussion and if necessary mediation is part of what we do if there are tensions on the horizon. It is essential to avoid the feuds, fall-outs and frost that often accompany inheritance.

You may want a form of words to send to friends and special people.  You may want words that support the Will and the decisions you have made.  We can assist with this although the agreed words will of course be from you.