Reasons to avoid “DIY” probate

Losing a loved one is a difficult experience for anyone and it can be made even harder by the complicated duties that have to be carried out in the aftermath. Aside from the initial tasks of informing close friends, employers and family and arranging a funeral, there is also the much more complex job of handling and distributing their estate.

Avoiding Employment Tribunals with a Settlement Agreement

Employment disputes can involve complicated issues which can distract you from your daily work and also reflect badly on your business. If you suspect that an employee may bring a claim against you then acting fast by offering them a Settlement Agreement could provide you with a more desirable outcome.

Establishing the value of a deceased persons estate

In our article “Why should I instruct a solicitor to administer an estate” we took an overview of some of the key reasons that you should ask a solicitor to handle an estate. One particular area that can benefit from a solicitors expertise is working out the value of a deceased person’s estate.

Financial implications of settlement agreements

If you have been offered a Settlement Agreement then you will be likely to benefit financially. However, there are certain financial implications that you should be aware of.

What is a Settlement Agreement?

Formerly known as a Compromise Agreement, a Settlement Agreement is a legally binding contract which can be used to bring to an end an employment relationship on agreed terms. It can act as an alternative to employment tribunals when a dispute arises and a claim is likely to be made against an employer.

What happens to an estate when no will is in place?

When someone dies without writing a will, or where a will cannot be tracked, they are said to have died ‘intestate’. This means that their estate cannot be distributed in any way other than by following the laws of intestacy, as they have not indicated through their will who the beneficiaries should be. In this article we will explain what happens to an estate in this situation.

What happens to debts when a person dies?

As we explained in our article “Why should I instruct a solicitor to administer an estate” there can be lots to arrange following someone’s death and many of these tasks are best suited to a solicitor, who can often give you valuable advice. One area which can often be a cause of worry to many people is what will happen to debts when they die, which is a subject that we are going to explore in this article.

What should employers know about Settlement Agreements?

In our recent guide we looked at how Settlement Agreements can be used to avoid costly employment tribunal claims and to prevent time consuming and prolonged management of underperforming staff. Below we discuss some of the key facts surrounding Settlement Agreements that employers should be aware of.

What is a Settlement Agreement?

A Settlement Agreement is a legally binding contract which can be used to bring to an end an employment relationship on agreed terms. They are less commonly used when a dispute is settled and an employee returns to work for the employer, Settlement Agreements were formally known as Compromise Agreements.