Do I have to accept an executorship?

A good friend (or client) of yours has sadly passed away and has named you as an executor of his Will.  What do you do now?  Must you act?

It is always flattering to be trusted with such a responsible role.  In some respects, you may feel morally obligated to act.  However, it is always worth taking some time out to think carefully about what you are taking on before you say yes; something that a solicitor can help you do, as we regularly deal with estate administrations and know what they really entail.

Trusts and the EU’s Fourth Money Laundering Directive

It is rare for trusts to cause a rumpus.  However, the European Commission’s latest draft EU Money Laundering Directive has put trusts in the spotlight and resulted in some alarming press reports.  So what’s going on and who will be affected by the changes proposed by the Directive?