Welcome to the November edition DMH Stallard Lifestyle, bringing you the latest legal news and issues that will help you and your family.
In this issue, our team focus on the key legal and financial position of couples who do not enter into marriage or civil partnerships, and discuss whether you have fewer rights if you're living together. Click here to read the full article. Key Issues Covered: - Pensions - How can you ensure your partner or spouse will benefit?
- Inheritance Rights – What will happen to your assets upon your death?
- Inheritance Tax – The implications depending on your situation
- Mental Incapacity – What will happen if you are involved in an accident or suffer a debilitating illness? Who would be appointed to deal with your finances and your property?
- Property Owners and Occupiers - Understanding the types of ownership available and the implications is important in order to decide which method of ownership is most suitable
- Relationship Breakdown - Understanding your rights if this were to ever happen
- Non-financial matters - What does "Next of Kin" actually refer to?
Unfortunately, it is often the case that a large number of couples only find out about their lack of legal standing when it is too late – often when their relationship has come to an end. It is therefore important to take measures to protect yourself and your partner. Our story, Court Rules on Unmarried Couples' Property Rights, follows a supreme court judgment this week, which awarded Patricia Jones the 90% share of a property which she had taken out as a joint mortgage with her former partner. This has redefined the property rights of unmarried couples and has triggered calls for legal reform. Our team has also been busy answering your questions on Wills, including what happens if you have married for a second time or if you live together with your partner but are not married. To read our Top 10 Tips, please click here. Get in touch
Whatever you need to do our team is here to help and happy to discuss any issues you have in a friendly and constructive way. For an informal chat please do not hesitate to contact our Head of Private Client, Lorna Fairbairn, or any other member of our Private Client team.
Tell us what is worth knowing
If there’s an issue you would like us to address then simply email us your suggestion. The most topical issues will win a bottle of champagne and will be covered in the next edition of DMH Stallard Lifestyle.
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