As he celebrates his firm’s silver jubilee year, Barnet-based solicitor Michael Anvoner will be sharing 25 years of experience and specialist expertise in private client law with the local community, and bringing peace of mind to you and your family.

Over the coming weeks, Michael will be addressing issues faced regularly by you, our readers, and answering your questions in plain English on topics including wills and dying without a valid will.

As Michael points out: “Many people think that when they die everything will go to their spouse or partner.  But without a valid will this isn’t always the case. If you don’t have a will then you must explore why it is so important to have one.”

He’ll also be looking at probate, dealing with the affairs of someone who has died; executors, the people you appoint to sort out your affairs after your death; trusts, a well-kept secret for saving tax on death; lasting powers of attorney; older client affairs; care fees; and inheritance tax.

“This is a subject many people choose to ignore or avoid but where great savings can be made,” says Michael.

“Every year the estates of more and more people who die become liable for inheritance tax, and their next of kin end up writing large cheques to HM Revenue & Customs.  This is not just a tax on the rich any more, and with sensible planning in good time it can often be reduced or even eliminated completely."

If inheritance tax is something that concerns you, or is a subject you don’t understand, Michael can help you make sense of it and put your mind at rest. Send your questions on this or any of the other topics mentioned above to timesquestions@anvoner.co.uk