WINTER LEGAL HEALTH CHECKLIST

As we are coming towards the end of 2014, we, at Roisin O’Connell Solicitors in Limerick, have listed below some tips to help you get through the Christmas period with peace of mind.

1. Investors beware: – as an investor if you are thinking of buying a property, you have little time left this year to qualify for the CGT exemption. A quick reminder to investors that all property bought before 31^st of December 2014 qualify for CGT (Capital Gains Tax) exemption. The only proviso is that it be kept for 7 years post purchase.
2. Take good care on the roads: – this time is year is really dangerous on the roads and you need to take extra vigilant care. Slow down while driving and keep ample distance between you and the driver ahead. Put the mobile away until you get to your destination and if you are having a drink of alcohol, don’t drive. Simple tips but your safety and wellbeing are paramount this Christmastime.
3. The rain is back and unfortunately this can lead to flooding in certain parts of the country. It was January this year when there were horrendous floods in Limerick city causing much devastation in its path. Make sure you know the terms of your insurance policy and that you are covered for this eventuality. If you discover you are not covered (and you thought you were), we may be able to help you.
4. Be careful with going about your business at work and at home. The dark nights and bad weather are the perfect criteria for accidents to occur. As employers, ensure that your health and safety policies are up to date; if you need help with this we can do a full review and advice upon any amendments required. For employees if you have any concerns in this area, we can offer some sound advice.
5. Get your NCT done! The guards will be scrutinising all cars that don’t have their NCT and if you are stopped by them, you will automatically attract 3 points and a fine. The likelihood is that your car may be due an NCT in the early months of the New Year. You can get an NCT 90 in advance of the renewal date and this will not affect the expiry date of the certificate. Avoid the threat of receiving penalty points – our advice is to act now!
6. Incredibly 60 % of Irish people do not have their Will done. This can and does lead to terrible problems for those left behind. For example, if you are married with kids, without a Will, your children get 1/3 of the estate and your spouse 2/3. Normally, both spouses would like for the other to get everything. This can be catered for in your Will. It is an easy and inexpensive matter to do your Will. Contact us now to make your appointment.

These points will hopefully help you avoid any legal actions over this winter period however in the unfortunate event that you are subjected to any of them in a negative way we are Limerick Solicitors here to help guide and resolve the issue for you.