When a loved one passes away, it’s essential to navigate the next steps with clarity and support. You will either need a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration to deal with their estate. Whether an executor steps in due to a Will or a close relative takes charge in the absence of one, understanding […]
NI Probate Timeline: From Death to Grant (with checklist) Read More »
When someone passes away, it isn’t always obvious what pensions or insurance policies they held. Even serious correspondence is increasingly sent exclusively by email. Therefore, some responsibility also lies with individuals to keep a record of their assets. Here’s a straightforward guide Executors can use right away. Please keep it simple, keep a paper trail,
How to Trace a Deceased Person’s Pensions and Insurance Read More »
Being appointed as an Attorney under a Power of Attorney (PoA) is a serious responsibility. In Northern Ireland, once the PoA has been registered with the High Court (via the Office of Care and Protection), there are key steps you must take to stay compliant and act in the donor’s best interests. Here’s a straightforward
You’ve Been Appointed Under a Power of Attorney in Northern Ireland – What Now? Read More »
Headline change: From £102 to £155 per hour — a sharp 52% rise in the Taxing Master hourly rate for solicitors in Northern Ireland. This will have implications for the costs of litigation which may pass to the Taxing Master. Key facts: Effective 1 June 2025, this represents a prospective increase to £155 per hour,
🕒 Boost in Solicitor Hourly Rate: What Small Businesses & Clients in NI Need to Know Read More »
When you first approach a solicitor, you’re often doing so at a stressful or sensitive moment. Perhaps you are embroiled in a commercial dispute, navigating a divorce, or require urgent estate planning advice. Whatever the circumstances, one question hovers in the background of every initial meeting: “If I tell you everything, how do I know
Client Confidentiality Explained: How Your Solicitor Keeps Your Information Safe Read More »
Buying a home has rarely felt tougher—especially for first-time buyers, who face high deposits and strict affordability tests. However, Northern Ireland’s Co-Ownership scheme offers a glimmer of hope, bridging that gap by allowing you to purchase the share you can afford while Co-Ownership NI buys the remainder. You pay your mortgage on your share and
Co-Ownership 2025: Your Guide to Shared Home Ownership in Northern Ireland Read More »
As of April 1, 2025, significant changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) have occurred, impacting property transactions across England and Northern Ireland. These adjustments, which mark the end of temporary relief measures introduced in 2022, are set to increase the financial burden on many homebuyers and investors. Key Changes to SDLT Rates 1. Reduction
With the coming into force of The Electrical Safety Standards for Private Tenancies Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2024, Landlords in Northern Ireland have yet another regulatory burden to satisfy. This new legislation further adds to the costs of operating a Rental Property Business. Whilst electricians, fire-safety experts, and other service providers won’t find the new revenue streams,
Inheritance Tax (IHT) planning has always been vital to protecting your estate and ensuring your Will reflects your current wishes. With the government announcing significant changes to Business Relief (BR) and Agricultural Relief (AR) effective from 6 April 2026, it is more important than ever to act now to safeguard your assets. We’ve already covered
IHT Business Relief – How It Works and What’s Changing Read More »
In recent weeks, countless social media feeds in the UK and beyond have been flooded with images that appear to spring straight from a Studio Ghibli film. However, these vividly animated scenes are not the product of the famed Japanese studio: they are generated by the latest version of ChatGPT, powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4o model.
AI-Generated Art: Navigating Copyright and Ethical Boundaries Read More »
Farmers today face a unique set of challenges regarding estate planning and inheritance tax. The recent reduction in Agricultural Property Relief (APR), commencing in April 2026, has intensified concerns about transferring farming assets to the next generation, complicating what was once a straightforward area of estate planning. In this post, we examine the key issues,
Agricultural Property Relief and Inheritance Tax: Navigating Challenges for Farmers Read More »
Suffering a personal injury can be both physically and emotionally distressing. Whether your injury arises from a road traffic accident, a workplace incident, or a public slip and fall, understanding the typical steps and processes involved can help you navigate this challenging time with confidence. In this post, we outline the key stages of a
What to Expect During a Personal Injury Claim in Northern Ireland Read More »
Did you know that more than four million couples in the UK live together without being married or in a civil partnership? Possibly due to the cost of housing and couples have to decide whether to spend their savings on getting on the housing ladder or a wedding and it’s a figure that keeps on
Happy New Year from all of us at JJ Taylor & Co! As we begin 2025, it’s the perfect time to set intentions and resolutions for the year ahead. While health, fitness, and financial goals often top the list, we encourage you to consider resolutions that bring peace of mind to you and your loved
Legal New Years Resolutions – Update Wills & Powers of Attorney Read More »
As we approach the Christmas season, we would like to take a moment to thank all our clients for their trust and support throughout 2024. At J J Taylor & Co Solicitors, it has been our privilege to assist you, and we look forward to continuing to serve your legal needs in the year ahead.
As we approach the end of the year, our November round-up brings a fresh perspective on some of the most important legal updates and opportunities that could impact you or your business. With the recent changes in tax laws, property regulations, and advancements in digital assets, it’s essential to stay informed and proactive. Whether you’re
With the recent changes to the UK’s capital gains tax (CGT) rates, it’s crucial for individuals trading any assets, but especially crypto, to understand the implications. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the new CGT rates and equips crypto traders with the knowledge they need to navigate these changes effectively. Overview of Capital Gains
The recent Labour budget introduced significant changes to inheritance tax (IHT) laws that could impact farm businesses across the UK. Understanding these changes and how to best prepare for them is essential for farm owners seeking to protect their legacy and pass on assets effectively. Failure to grasp these changes could lead to unexpected tax
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In Northern Ireland, preparing for the future by setting up a Power of Attorney is not just advisable—it’s essential. Life can be unpredictable, and the ability to manage one’s affairs can be compromised at any time due to illness, injury, or the natural ageing process. One of the most critical legal safeguards you can put
The Importance of Having a Power of Attorney in Northern Ireland: A Comprehensive Guide Read More »
