We are a traditional, high street law firm and have been serving our community for over 170 years.
Yes. Capital gains tax (CGT) often arises during estate planning when assets are transferred during your lifetime rather than on death. We advise on the CGT implications of gifting property, transferring business assets, and restructuring ownership.
Where appropriate, we work with your accountant to ensure lifetime transfers are structured in the most tax-efficient way for both IHT and CGT purposes.
Yes. In England and Wales, you can still claim compensation even if you were partly at fault for the accident. This is called contributory negligence. The court will assess the degree to which each party was responsible, and your compensation will be reduced by a percentage that reflects your share of the blame.
For example, if you were found 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. We’ll advise you on how this is likely to affect your claim.
Legally, yes. There is no requirement to use a solicitor for probate. However, estate administration involves legal, tax and financial responsibilities, and mistakes can result in personal liability for the executor or administrator.
If the estate involves property, inheritance tax, trusts, debts or any complexity, professional advice is strongly recommended. We’re happy to do as much or as little as you need, even if that’s simply reviewing what you’ve done yourself.
Yes. Since the introduction of no-fault divorce in April 2022, you can apply for a divorce on your own (a sole application) without your spouse’s agreement. They cannot contest the divorce itself, though they may dispute financial matters or arrangements for children.
Yes. If a family member lacks the mental capacity to manage their own claim, a litigation friend can bring the claim on their behalf. This is particularly relevant for elderly or vulnerable clients, including those in care homes.
If the person has a Lasting Power of Attorney or a Court-appointed Deputy, that person may be able to act as litigation friend. We regularly handle claims on behalf of people who cannot act for themselves and can guide you through the process.
It depends on the stage. You must have the mental capacity to create an LPA, meaning you understand what an LPA is, what powers you’re giving, and the consequences.
In the early stages of dementia, many people can still make a valid LPA with proper support. Our solicitors are experienced in working with elderly and vulnerable clients and can assess whether an LPA is still possible. If you’re concerned, it is best to act sooner rather than later.
Yes. Leasehold flats are common in Altrincham and across South Manchester, and they come with additional complexity, e.g. lease length, ground rent, service charges, and restrictions all need careful review. We check lease terms thoroughly before you commit and can advise on lease extensions if the remaining term is getting short.
Yes. We offer home visits across Cheshire and South Manchester for clients who cannot easily travel to our Altrincham office. We can meet you at home, in hospital, or in a care home, wherever is most convenient.
Home visits are particularly important for clients who are unwell, have mobility issues, or simply feel more comfortable discussing sensitive matters in familiar surroundings.
No. The vast majority of personal injury claims settle through negotiation without ever reaching a courtroom. Your solicitor will negotiate directly with the other party’s insurers, and most claims are resolved this way.
If the other side disputes liability or offers an unacceptably low settlement, court proceedings may be necessary. If that happens, your solicitor will prepare your case and guide you through every step.
For a straightforward undefended divorce, you won’t need to attend court. The process is handled online through the government portal. However, if you can’t agree on finances or arrangements for children, court proceedings may be necessary.
Legally, no. You can handle your own divorce through the government’s online portal. However, the divorce itself is only part of the picture. If you have assets to divide, pensions to consider, or children to make arrangements for, professional advice is strongly recommended. Mistakes in financial settlements can have lasting consequences, and once a final order is made, you generally can’t go back.
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