Pat was born in Scotland and qualified as a Solicitor in 1980.
She moved to England in 1986 since which time she has worked in both Local Government and Private Practice.
In 2001 she was admitted as a Solicitor in England. Pat joined Beaumonts in 1998 and became Partner in 2002, specialising in probate client work involving preparation of wills, administration of estates, creation, administration and finalisation of trusts, Inheritance Tax and Lasting Powers of Attorney.
Assisted by Anne Boyle.
Chris was admitted as a Solicitor in 1969 and has been with the firm for a period in excess of 40 years exclusively engaged in Probate Client Work. He specialises in all aspects of Estate Planning, Inheritance Tax and Trusts. Chris is a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP). He was a partner in the firm until 1999 when he became the firm's full time practising Consultant.
Assisted by Christine Kyles.
Bridget was appointed Fellow of the Institution of Legal Executives in 2005 having been a member since 2000. She is currently applying for membership of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP). Bridget specialises in all areas of Probate Client work including Wills, Probate, Trusts, Power of Attorney (including Lasting Power of Attorney) and all matters which are of concern to the more elderly of our clients.
Assisted by Laura Elliott.
Wills
Making your Will is an important step, as it is the last document to record your wishes for future generations. It is essential that an expert helps you in this area to make sure that your wishes are correctly understood and recorded.
Although some smaller estates may be straightforward to deal with, expertise in this area of law is essential when it comes to property, complex wills, extensive family interests and Trusts. Without expert assistance, some estates may be liable to unnecessary Inheritance Tax or Capital Gains Tax, but our lawyers will often be able to advise on legitimate ways to reduce or negate any such problems.
Trusts
The creation of a Trust is not an option just to the better-off. Trusts are useful tools both during a lifetime and after death (when incorporated in a Will) for appointing assets in a way to best benefit intermediate and ultimate Beneficiaries.
Even a modest family home or building society account can be placed in Trust which will exist and operate for many years, if desired. The funds can be applied, exactly in the way the Settlor requires by the Trustees who are appointed to carry out such duties.
Trusts can be used quite legitimately to assist the preservation of assets for younger generations as clients approach later life and different concerns begin to arise, such as the prospect of financing long term care or housing. They are also invaluable in connection with future tax planning and reducing an Inheritance Tax liability on funds which have been so carefully accumulated and invested.
Lasting Powers of Attorney
We provide advice and support for the elderly and those who seek assistance in managing their affairs as we specialise in attending to the appointment of an "attorney" who will make decisions regarding welfare and other issues.
Conclusion
All these areas of legal work seem so remote from day to day lives as they deal with future situations. However, it is extremely important to plan well for the day that the future becomes the present to ensure that life continues in the way you would wish, both during your days and for those you may leave behind.