On Monday 14th October the Secretary of State for Justice, Robert Buckland, announced that the proposal to dramatically increase probate fees will be withdrawn after months of awaiting parliamentary approval.

Many parents may have to redraft their wills to protect their children's future under proposed inheritance legislation changes, the Law Society has cautioned.

Starting from 1 April 2013, some local authorities are planning to raise the council tax on empty homes, which will affect beneficiaries who are struggling to sell the properties of their late relatives.