Wrigley Claydon Solicitors

Tag: solicitor

  • The complications with lasting powers of attorney

    The complications with lasting powers of attorney

    Recently discussions regarding handing over authority to another person to act on your behalf should you become mentally or physically incapable have been rife.  Lasting Powers of Attorney  (LPA) have been all over the newspaper headlines because some family members have been abusing their power, whilst others have become frustrated by banks refusing to acknowledge theirs.

    People can become unable to manage their own affairs or need assistance in doing so, at any stage of life.  An accident, physical ill health or the onset of mental illness may make the everyday routine of paying bills, writing cheques etc both difficult and stressful and, in some cases, impossible.

    The LPA system is an insurance policy against problems that may occur later in life.  It is advisable to put an LPA in place while you can – if it never has to be used, nothing is lost, but it makes things much easier should physical or mental health issues make it difficult to look after your own affairs.  Friends and family do not automatically have the right to take over, and signing an LPA can ensure peace of mind that someone you trust will be able to look after the things that matter.

    Anyone  who is over the age of 18 and mentally capable can make an LPA. The completion of a Lasting Power of Attorney does not restrict your right to go on looking after your own affairs so long as you are able. Before the LPA can be used, it needs to be registered with the Office of Public Guardian.

    Inevitably, appointing an Attorney is not a simple process and rules have been put in place to ensure that the system is not abused.

    Making a Lasting Power of Attorney is an important matter.  Many people begin to consider making an LPA at a time when their mental and physical health is beginning to decline, which is a difficult time for any family. This is where Wrigley Claydon can help.

    Our Probate Department is on hand to discuss your requirements, with home visits also available for the elderly or infirm.  If you have any questions or concerns regarding Power of Attorney, please do not hesitate to call us on 0161 624 6811or email us at info@wrigleyclaydon.com.

  • Oldham Solicitor you can trust

    When looking for an Oldham Solicitor you can trust we know you need a firm with a strong reputation and history. At Wrigley Claydon we have solid foundations that allows us to move with the times to help you through the legal process stress free.

    We’ve had a continuous presence as Oldham Solicitors since the practice was established in 1795 by Henry Barlow. It was 60 years later when our now namesake Henry Wrigley joined the firm. Today his great great great granddaughter is still a client!

    We celebrated our 200 year anniversary in 1995 having expanded our offices into the Todmorden area in 1980. This gives us flexibility to serve all our clients’ legal needs at both offices, at their home or place of business. Our Todmorden team is headed up by Godfrey Pickles, our very experienced Senior Partner.

    At Wrigley Claydon we recruit real people who are experts in their field and  care about their work.  Some of our staff  first experienced us during their work placements and we made such an impression they’ve never left.  Our team enjoys what we do and some of us sit on industry panels and boards.

    We’ve adapted to changing times and provide a service which recognises that solicitor’s clients demand not only efficiency and to be kept constantly informed but also friendly and approachable treatment.

    Wrigley Claydon try to combine all these attributes and, whilst using the very best of modern technology, remember that our clients are sensitive people, like us, often facing the most critical decisions of their private or business life.

    With this in mind it is the philosophy of the firm to offer a warm welcome and a sympathetic and understanding service, as well as good advice and efficiency.

    We also see it as our task not only to solve your problems but, wherever possible, to prevent them arising in the first place by providing sound and constructive advice on a regular basis, throughout your business or personal life.

  • Beware of Strangers Bearing Promotional Gifts. Don’t be lured by these Personal Injury Solicitors

    Beware of Strangers Bearing Promotional Gifts. Don’t be lured by these Personal Injury Solicitors

    When it comes to personal injury claims, some personal injury solicitors  offer gifts or cash incentives to people who have been injured in order that they will instruct that particular firm to handle their claim.

    Before you make a decision, it’s worth asking yourself why exactly anyone would need to use promotional gifts to try and lure you in.

    While, on the face of it, it may seem an attractive proposition, it’s worth considering the wisdom of such a decision.

    We understand that you might be tempted by promotional gifts, as anyone would, but when choosing a personal injury solicitor it’s important and advisable not to be distracted from what matters. Effective legal work does not rest on the back of introductory offers, but on that of hard-working, high-caliber professionals, able to recognise the true value in a claim and ensure that you receive the right amount of compensation.

    A highly regarded, prestigious personal injury solicitor will never have a shortage of potential clients and as such should have no need to reach out for them. Marketing gimmicks are no substitute for genuine expertise and a proven track record of success. As a customer, the reputation of a solicitor is the best barometer you have in determining the right person to handle your claim.

    When it comes to your claim and your compensation, it’s best to turn to a solicitor you know you can trust to represent your interest. You will not go far wrong if you choose a local solicitors office, with a solid reputation for injury work, who can treat your claim on a personal basis.

    Confidence in the competence of your claims handler is incentive in itself. Besides, who even needs a free fountain pen?
    With over 30 years in handling people’s claims for personal compensation, Wrigley Claydon is a name you can trust.
    If you are thinking about making a claim, call us on 0161 785 3534.
  • Top Tips to Commercial Debt Recovery

    Top Tips to Commercial Debt Recovery

    Top Tips to Commercial Debt Recovery
    1. Identify and know your customer
    2. Provide clear terms and conditions for payment
    3. Set an appropriate credit limit
    4. Ensure invoices are accurate and delivered promptly
    5. Provide simple and efficient payment methods
    6. Have a set procedure for chasing late payment
    7. Pick up the phone and be proactive
    8. Resolve genuine problems
    9. Keep a paper trail
    10. Consider Wrigley Claydon’s specialist debt recovery department
    What Our Clients Say About Our Commercial Debt Recovery Services

    “Shalish Mehta is always successful at claiming money back on the Company’s behalf. Once I have passed my notes onto Shalish he completely takes charge of the facts. His experience gives me great confidence. He has had different issues to deal with on behalf of our Company, all very different, and has approached them very enthusiastically and professionally.

    I would highly recommend Shalish Mehta and Wrigley Claydon to any individual or Company requiring services to collect outstanding payments. His expertise in the field of debt recuperation is exceptional. His service is an asset to support any company.”

    Lesley Pollit – Director of Cosy Toes Nursery Limited – Client

    For more information or to speak to our team about our commercial debt recovery services  please call us on  0161 624 6811

    Team: Vijay Srivastava and Shalish Mehta

  • As accident specialists, we launch personal injury campaign to help claimants receive larger payouts

    As accident specialists, we launch personal injury campaign to help claimants receive larger payouts

    We have launched a campaign to encourage people to instruct a solicitor when making a personal injury claim. This is prevent the growing number of people who are settling their claims for much less than they are worth.

    If an injured person uses a solicitor and wins their case, the insurance company will have to pay the compensation to the injured person and the costs of their solicitor. Many insurance companies have been trying to prevent the injured person instructing a solicitor who is an accident specialist, so that the insurance company saves money by paying less compensation and not having to pay the solicitor.

    Litigation and Personal Injury solicitor and accident specialist Vijay Srivastava explains,

    “When a road accident occurs, people always exchange insurance particulars. This means that the insurance company gets your contact details before there is time to instruct a solicitor. When the insurance company recognises that their customer is at fault, they then contact the injured person directly to offer for example to repair their car, arrange for a hire car and pay them immediate compensation (without getting any medical evidence to confirm the extent or the long-lasting effects of the injury), typically in the sum of £1000.”

    Settling straight away can be tempting to the injured person because it is a quick fix, without much hassle and inconvenience, but in many cases the injured person is doing themselves a huge disservice. The reality is that most of these injured people are settling their claims for less than they are worth. Firstly the injured person doesn’t know how much their claim is truly worth (because they are not experts) and secondly the way the courts value compensation based on what your injury is and the longer you have been suffering the larger your claim. Settling your claim on day one generally means you have settled at an undervalue. By not getting any medical evidence you simply don’t know what your injuries are, how long you are going to be suffering for, whether there are going to be any long-term effects and consequently you don’t know how much your claim is worth.

    Always speak to an ‘Accident Specialist’

    Vijay comments,

    “We are currently running a case where an insurance company offered £1000 to our client. Our client refused to accept this amount and instructed us. We value the claim in excess of £20,000. We have another case where the insurance company offered our client £1000. He did not accept that amount but instead instructed us. We value the case in excess of £50,000 and consequently the insurance company has now increased their offer to £10,000. We are also dealing with a case where our client was offered £1000. He did not accept it and instructed us. Our investigation of his medical condition and the obtaining of the appropriate medical reports (including a report from a neurologist) showed that the accident had caused damage to blood vessels leading to his head which now cause him dizziness. He has a manual job which involves a lot of bending, consequently he is unable to perform his job any more. His claim will be worth significantly more than £1000.”

    For more information or to speak to one of our accident specialists about a possible claim please call us on  0161 785 3534.

    Team: Vijay Srivastava and Shalish Mehta

  • Traffic Accident Compensation

    Traffic Accident CompensationPrime Minister, David Cameron says that he wants to reduce car insurance premiums by putting an end to the traffic accident compensation culture.

    Consultation was launched last year after figures revealed a 60 per cent increase in the number of personal injury claims related to road accidents since 2006. Whiplash claims in 2010 are estimated to have cost £2 billion, or £90 per car insurance policy.

    Justice Secretary Chris Grayling said,

    “The UK’s growing traffic accident compensation culture has been pushing up the cost of insurance, making it more costly to drive a car or organise events. It’s time the whole system was rebalanced.”

    Wrigley Claydon Partner, Vijay Srivastava heads up the Litigation team where he has worked for over 20 years, amassing a wealth of experience. Many years ago, Vijay was appointed to the Law Society Personal Injury Solicitor Panel as a specialist in injury claims.

    His Comment on Traffic Accident Compensation:-

    As a car driver himself, Vijay accepts that car insurance premiums have risen considerably and he welcomes anything that can be done by the insurance companies to reduce those premiums.  However if you were involved in a car accident and for example fractured your leg, just consider whether you would be able to walk, bathe, drive, work, shop, dress, cook, look after your family, play sport or sleep comfortably.  The reality is that you would struggle to do all of these things.  In those circumstances isn’t it right that the innocent party is compensated for the pain and suffering that has been caused by the negligence of another party and in those circumstances is it not right that an Insurance Company that has collected premiums from the negligent party should pay out an appropriate amount of money to reflect the pain and suffering you have undergone?

    For more information about traffic accident claims or to speak to our team about a possible claim please call us on 0161 785 3534.

    Team: Vijay Srivastava and Shalish Mehta

  • Do I need a divorce lawyer?

    Deciding that your marriage is over is a hard decision to reach. In addition to your personal feelings there maybe children or other family members who will be affected, and wider financial implications to consider.

    Once you are sure that a permanent split is the only way forward, seeking professional legal advice from a divorce lawyer is recommended.

    If you are ready to proceed here are our top tips from our Divorce Lawyers to help you get started:

    1. If you both accept the marriage is over then this will make the process easier. Try and get the other party to co-operate.
    2. Get hold of your marriage certificate or an official copy.
    3. Make sure you have the correct address for your spouse.
    4. Try and agree some arrangements for your children.
    5. Choose your timing carefully. Is getting a divorce the priority or is it really sorting out the arrangements for the children or finances?
    6. Choose your ground for divorce carefully for a smoother process – eg it may not be worth alleging adultery if it is not admitted.
    7. If using the behaviour ground, do you really need to throw in the kitchen sink as well? Think what you really need to say and don’t over-egg the pudding.
    8. If possible, sort out and agree how the legal and court costs are going to be paid and by whom. Are they to be shared in some way?
    9. Don’t just apply for the decree absolute at the first opportunity without considering the financial implications, particularly if financial matters have not yet been resolved. Remember that the divorce only changes your marital status and does not in itself resolve or conclude any financial arrangements.
    10. Make a new will to reflect your changed circumstances – you don’t have to wait for the final decree (decree absolute) to do this.
    If you would like further information or to talk to a Divorce Lawyer at Wrigley Claydon please call us on 0161 785 3521.

  • What we do as your probate solicitor after someone has died

    Probate SolicitorDo I need a probate solicitor?

    When someone dies, someone needs to sort everything out. Death is a major event which has consequences that need to be properly handled on behalf of the deceased. Probate is the legal authority conferred upon someone to carry out the administration of the estate.

    The ‘estate’  includes;

    • money, both cash and money in a bank or building society account. This could include money paid out on a life insurance policy
    • money owed to the person who has died
    • shares
    • property, for example, their home
    • personal possessions, for example, their car or jewellery
    As your probate solicitor these are the services we can provide;

    1. Register the death with all the relevant authorities without the need for you to obtain numerous death certificates and contact numerous authorities.

    2. Obtain the official document called a grant which authorises a named individual to administer the estate for example close bank accounts and encash insurance policies held by the deceased.

    3. Our application for a grant as a probate solicitor will be dealt with in priority to an individual’s application.

    4. Deal with the inland revenue on your behalf.

    5. Ensure monies are paid out to the correct beneficiaries – identification can be problematic especially if there is no will. we are fully insured.

    6. Arrange for property to be transferred following a death or deal with its sale.

    It is always best to get legal advice from a probate solicitor.  We are an experienced firm who understand and are able to deal with all possible aspects that can arise on someone’s death.

    For more information or to speak to one of our probate solicitors Rachel Damianou or please call us on  0161 624 6811.

  • Making a Will

    Surveys carried out by www.which.co.uk show that half of the population does not have a Will. Furthermore, people put off making a Will, often until they are in their 50’s. This leaves a sizeable number uncovered, not to mention those who die young.

    Making a Will lets you leave clear instructions about how your estate is to be distributed.

    Without a Will, distribution of your estate is directed by the Intestacy Rules. This may not be what you want e.g. your spouse may not receive as much as you would want and unmarried partners would receive nothing.

    Making a Will allows you to say exactly who receives what and who will be appointed to administer your estate. You have the opportunity to leave a legacy to friends and charities. If you have remarried, a Will can ensure any children from your first marriage receive a share of your estate.

    In short, making a Will relieves some of the stress and worry experienced by your family at a time of bereavement. The process need not be complicated or expensive.

    At Wrigley Claydon we are sympathetic, helpful and have the necessary expertise to advise and guide you smoothly through the process of writing a Will.

    If you have any questions or would like to discuss making your Will please contact Rachel Damianou on 0161 624 6811 or email rld@wrigleyclaydon.com.

     

  • Age Discrimination, the facts from our Specialist Employment Solicitor

    Age Discrimination, the facts from our Specialist Employment Solicitor

    Employment Solicitor John Porter offers advice on issues surrounding retirement:

    It used to be the case that when an employee reached the national retirement age he or she could be forced to retire. This is no longer the case.

    Since April 2011 it has become unlawful to force someone out of work simply because they have reached a particular age. This now falls foul of rules relating to Age Discrimination contained in the Equality Act 2010.

    There are of course exceptions to this but any dismissal will have to be objectively justified as being a reasonable way of achieving a legitimate aim. A recent case allowed, for example, a senior partner in a solicitor’s firm to be ousted to allow succession planning within the business.

    Put simply, employers can no longer simply assume that older employees will leave at 65. Before taking steps in relation to any dismissal (or if you are about to be dismissed) contact our employment department for expert legal advice from an employment solicitor.

    Wrigley Claydon offer a wide variety of legal support from our employment solicitor who is ready to help.

    For further help or information please email John Porter, our specialist employment lawyer, jap@wrigleyclaydon.com.