The latest family and household figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveal that the number of cohabiting couple families continues to grow. Between 2008 to 2018, there has been a 25.8% increase in families of this type. Cohabiting couple families are even growing faster than married couple and lone parent families.

A substantial number of people act as an Executor every year, however, many people are still unaware of the responsibilities that come with the role. This guide aims to explain what it means to be an Executor, as well as what tasks could be involved. It also shares the risks you’ll face in the role, and inform you of your options when it comes to acting as an Executor.

Aretha Franklin died on the 16th of August 2018 at the age of 76 after an ongoing battle with pancreatic cancer. Recent news reports have now revealed how a handwritten Will has been discovered under a sofa cushion in the Queen of Soul’s home in Detroit. To ensure the Will’s validity, it is being examined by a handwriting expert.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot at Windsor Castle on the 19th of May 2018. Almost one year on, in the early hours of the 6th May 2019 the couple welcomed baby boy, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, into the family.

This year has been a big year for government-related announcements, including proposed probate fee changes, civil partnerships set to be extended to mixed-sex couples, and recommendations to simplify Inheritance Tax. 2018’s research papers have also revealed some interesting insights about the Will writing and financial service industries.

Prince is currently being mourned across the world by a generation of fans who adored his eclectic musical style, flamboyant stage presence and ground breaking albums. During his lifetime he sold over 100 million records, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time.

Kings Court Trust firmly believes in the benefits of having a professional help draft a Will to ensure that everybody’s final wishes are made clear and carried out accurately. Drafting a Will and carefully considering what is to happen to our finances is not the most cheery of topics, but one that should be taken very seriously.

When making a Will, many people choose to use a DIY kit or online template for a variety of reasons. Research shows that 37% of us thought it would be cheaper than going through a solicitor, whilst others thought it would be quicker to do it ourselves or didn’t want a stranger knowing their business.

According to the Guardian, less than half of UK adults have drawn up a Will, which leaves more than 26 million people with no formal instructions on how their assets should be distributed after their death.