Trust, Wills and Probate Archives | Sills & Betteridge Solicitors

Why a Will Is Not Always Enough for Blended Families

Estate planning often begins with a simple goal - making sure the people you love are protected. For many families, a standard Will can accomplish that. But for blended families - those formed through remarriage, stepchildren or children from prior relationships - a Will alone is rarely enough. In fact, relying solely on a Will can unintentionally create conflict or lead to outcomes no one intended. Blended families have unique dynamics, and understanding why a will may fall short requires looking at how these documents function in real‑life situations.

Sills & Betteridge Sheffield Teams shortlisted for four categories in Law Society Awards

Through our recent mergers with Sheffield's Bell & Buxton and Acclaimed Family Law we are delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted in four categories in the prestigious Sheffield Law Society Awards.

Major Inheritance Tax Changes Ahead | What You Need to Know About BPR, APR and Pensions

From 2026 and 2027, significant changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT) rules in the UK will come into effect—changes that could impact thousands of families, business owners, and pension holders. If you own agricultural or business assets, or have a pension pot you plan to pass on, it’s time to take a closer look at your estate planning.

'Association of Lifetime Lawyers' Members Raise Concern About Asset Protection Trusts

If you are considering an Asset Protection Trust to safeguard your home or savings, the Association of Lifetime Lawyers (formerly known as Solicitors for the Elderly) urges you to be cautious after seeing a rise in misleading schemes that could cost you thousands of pounds - and leave you unprotected. Their current campaign calls for stronger regulation and more public awareness to protect families from the miss-selling of Asset Protection Trusts.

Lasting Powers of Attorney are only needed for the elderly – WRONG! Why you need them NOW...

World Alzheimer's Month | Legal Planning and Dementia

Data published by the NHS in August 2025 reveals a new high record number of people diagnosed with dementia in the UK. 506,549 people have been formally diagnosed which is a significant rise from 490,163 reported the same time last year. September is World Alzheimer's Month a global campaign led by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) to raise awareness, challenge stigma and support those affected by dementia.