Covid-19 Update

Please note that due to the ongoing issues with the spread of the COVID-19 virus we have now closed our office. Our teams continue to work from home and can be contacted on their individual email addresses or on the following email address- This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view…

The difference between obtaining confirmation for small estates and large estates

Confirmation is a legal document that must be obtained by an executor before any money and property belonging to the deceased can be uplifted from the holder (such as the bank) and distributed accordingly. There are two types of confirmation in Scotland; confirmation for small estates and for large estates. In this blog, we will cover the…

What is a Deed of Variation and how can it help reduce Inheritance Tax?

When somebody dies, their affairs must be wound up and everything they own needs to be distributed to those entitled to inherit (the beneficiaries). How their estate is distributed will depend on either the terms set out in their will or the rules of intestacy should a will not exist. There are occasions when the beneficiaries of…

A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Confirmation in Scotland

When someone dies, the person who is responsible for administering their estate will often need to apply for ‘Confirmation’ before the deceased’s money and other property can be engathered and distributed. This blog post will cover everything you need to know about applying for Confirmation: What is Confirmation? Why do I need a certificate of Confirmation…

IHT ignorance at an ‘alarming rate’ in the UK

According to Canada Life’s latest IHT annual report, the lack of awareness around Inheritance Tax (IHT) has increased in the last 12 months, with 50 per cent of over-45s who are IHT-liable admitting they are oblivious to whether their property could be subject to the tax. The 2019 report, which surveyed 1,002 people holding assets worth more…

What are an Executor's duties?

At Wilson & Fish, our expert executry lawyers regularly assist clients in carrying out their executry duties. We understand that acting as an executor can be a daunting prospect – at our firm, you can be assured that we will provide clear, detailed, and tailored advice. Executry duties: First steps If the deceased died intestate (without leaving…