Estate administration for vulnerable beneficiaries
We act in the best interest of our clients
We regularly act as independent administrators for the estates of couples and individuals, some of whom have vulnerable children by way of a mental or physical disability.
With no interest in the money, we can act in the best interests of our clients; our involvement removes all potential financial conflicts of interest, ensuring all recipients receive their entitlement without cause for dispute. With some vulnerable beneficiaries unable to manage the money themselves, we help manage spending and safeguard funds from any inappropriate interference.
We are Trustees for a Discretionary Will Trust created in the Will of Frances*, whose beneficiaries are her children and descendants, with her son, Frank* (aged 77), the main beneficiary. Frank is incredibly vulnerable; he has severe learning difficulties and health issues and is currently receiving care through support workers. The trust assets amount to approximately £110,000 and as the appointed Trustees we are keen for the money to be used for Frank’s benefit as far as possible because upon his death, the residue will be inherited by a distant family member.
Understanding our client's needs
We are also Trustees for Sandra’s* Discretionary Will Trust, comprising investments worth approximately £180,000. The main beneficiaries of these trust assets were her two children, Jack* and Sally*, who both have severe learning difficulties and live-in care homes, followed by her sister and nieces. Sadly, Jack passed away and we assisted with his estate, including registering the death and arranging the funeral, and ensuring all assets passed to Sally according to the rules of intestacy because Jack was not able to make a Will.
We have developed a cost-effective approach to trust management which allows our clients to get the best value for money. Rather than consistently dealing with the trust manager, we appoint clients with a caseworker and a trust administrator who both have lower charging rates, and work alongside trust managers, keeping fees as low as possible. The caseworker can spend more time getting to know the client and understanding their needs whilst the client benefits from spending less on legal costs.
Help to manage spending
For example, Frank’s caseworker arranges a monthly allowance for new clothing and bedding which we will review on a six-month basis, and has enabled him to buy a new armchair and footstool to make his property more homely and comfortable when he has visitors.
For Sally, we are also working with an occupational therapist (OT) who advises on Sally’s personal needs. This meant that, when the OT recommended Sally wear a weighted jacket to calm her body’s proprioceptive system, her caseworker could buy one on her behalf. The jacket makes Sally happier and able to live a normal life.
*All names have been changed
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