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Written by: Ruth Stevenson, Director/Solicitor at Ives & Co Solicitors
Planning Ahead: What the Glastonbury IHT Case Teaches Us About Estate Planning
At Ives and Co, we specialise in Will drafting, Probate services, and Inheritance Tax (IHT) planning. Whether you’re protecting family assets or managing a complex estate, our expert solicitors ensure everything is handled with care, efficiency, and the right legal protection
The Glastonbury Case – What Happened?
A family from Glastonbury made headlines after their Inheritance Tax planning strategy attracted public and media attention. However, legal experts say this plan was entirely lawful and should not be seen in a negative light.
🔹 The arrangement was put in place legally before death
🔹 It resulted in significant IHT savings
🔹 The family complied with all legal and tax requirements
🔹 Professionals are urging the public not to assume wrongdoing when it comes to estate planning
Key Lessons from the Case
This story highlights how vital timely, expert legal advice is when planning your estate.
- Proper planning is legal – Using available IHT allowances is not tax evasion.
- Public perception can misjudge what is actually a legitimate legal tool.
- Media coverage isn’t always accurate – the right legal advice makes all the difference.
- Early advice is best – Planning years in advance offers the most benefit.
⚠️ Why You Shouldn’t Leave It Too Late
If you don’t take legal advice on your estate, you could face:
🔸 Excessive inheritance tax
🔸 Disputes between loved ones
🔸 Delays and additional costs in probate
🔸 Risk of your will being challenged
Let’s Secure Your Legacy
Every family is different. Every estate needs care. Talk to Ives and Co today about protecting your wishes and minimising tax.
✅ Free initial consultation
✅ Friendly, expert legal support
✅ No hidden costs
Although trusts can create inheritance-tax and administrative responsibilities, the right structure may provide valuable flexibility when protecting assets and planning how family wealth should pass to future generations.
If you are considering creating or reviewing a trust as part of your estate planning in England or Wales, please contact one of our offices, email quotes@ivesandco.com or call us to discuss how our Wills and Probate team can assist.
