News

In a significant move that underscores growing concerns over probate fraud, the Bona Vacantia (BVD) of the Government Legal Department has temporarily take down its list of unclaimed estates from its website. This move follows after a BBC investigation that unearthed widespread probate fraud, particularly concerning the use of fabricated wills. At the heart of […]

Additional empty homes officers will play a “vital” role in bringing Scotland’s vacant properties back into use and helping address the nation’s housing crisis, the Scottish government’s housing secretary, Mairi McAllan, has said. Nine of Scotland’s 32 local authorities have already agreed to recruit additional empty home officers, with the new posts forming part of […]

London, UK – July 8, 2025 In a significant move that underscores growing concerns over probate fraud, the Bona Vacantia (BVD) of the Government Legal Department has temporarily removed its list of unclaimed estates from its website. This drastic step follows a recent BBC investigation that exposed systemic fraud within the probate system, particularly concerning […]

London, UK – Fraser and Fraser, a name associated with professional genealogy and probate research, is immensely proud to announce their win as the Financial and Professional Services Family Business of the Year, at the notable Family Business of the Year Awards 2025. This honour celebrates a century of family dedication, growth and unparalleled expertise […]

A group of farmers and business owners has called for a judicial review of government proposals to levy inheritance tax (IHT) on farmland and family businesses. The plans, announced in last autumn’s Budget and scheduled to come into force in April 2026, would cap Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) at £1m, […]