Stephanie Pennington
Solicitor, Probate, Wills and Trusts
01423 566666
stephanie.pennington@raworths.co.uk
Background
Born in Doncaster
Education: University of Huddersfield (LLB Hons), College of Law, York
Previous roles: Frank Allen Pennington, Keeble Hawson Solicitors, Godloves Solicitors and HSBC Trust Company.
Joined Raworths November 2010
Student member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners
Legal Specialisation
Stephanie is a member of the Probate, Wills and Trusts Unit. Stephanie is experienced in all aspects of estate planning including preparation of wills, setting up trusts, tax planning, Court of Protection matters and Power of Attorney requirements. Stephanie also has particular expertise in business property relief, agricultural property relief and dealing with foreign assets.
Experience
Examples of matters Stephanie has advised upon include:
- Obtaining Grants of Representation in foreign jurisdictions including Germany and the Isle of Man.
- Resealing Grants of Representation for use in England and Wales.
- Acting in the administration of estates making successful claims for Business Property Relief and Agricultural Property Relief.
- Preparation of Wills for tax planning purposes
- Preparation of Wills for individuals with children from previous relationships.
- Administering estates involving legacies to national charities and family.
- Preparation and registration of Lasting Powers of Attorney
In conversation
Should I make a new will if I am newly married ?
It is important to note that if you get married or enter into a civil partnership your existing will is automatically revoked. Consequently, it is important to enter into a new will as soon as possible after the big day to make sure that your estate is distributed according to your wishes.
Are you able to provide advice as to how to plan a will to make provision for previous relationships ?
This is a regular feature of our work and one of the key reasons to enter into a will. Family life can be complicated but wills can be written so that everyone is catered for. In particular, to make provision for your children of an earlier relationship as well as your present partner.
What if I have assets abroad?
It is important to make a Will to dispose of assets that are situated in another country. Different countries have different legislation that a Will must comply with to ensure that it is a valid document.
What do you think are the key qualities for a Private Client Solicitor?
The range of work that I deal with is hugely varied ranging from drafting Wills and Powers of Attorney to administering estates all of which can be hugely emotional and stressful. This area of law requires an empathetic and understanding character.
Do I really need to consider making a Lasting Power of Attorney?
Many clients ask if they need a Lasting Power of Attorney as well as a Will. The answer is yes. Lasting Powers of Attorney are documents that are used during the lifetime of an individual in the event that they become physically or mentally incapable of looking after their own affairs. Ideally a client would have a Lasting Power of Attorney and Will.
How often should I review my Will?
Wills should be reviewed on a regular basis at least every five years. Life changing events such as marriage or re-marriage, the birth of a new child/grandchild, disposal of any assets specifically named in your Will, dispute amongst named Executors, health of a beneficiary named in the Will, value of your estate increasing/decreasing significantly, change of name.
What attracted you to a career in Law?
My Grandfather set up Pennington’s law firm in Doncaster and my father followed him in to the firm also. From an early age I knew I wanted to follow in the family footsteps!
