Latest news with #Grice
Metro
3 days ago
- General
- Metro
I execute wills - these are the 3 most common family inheritance rows
Do not assume you'll receive the same money as siblings in your parents' will. And if your partner has children from a previous relationship, buckle in for a bumpy ride. Those are the key warnings from Sam Grice, founder of Octopus Legacy, who's dished the dirt on the most explosive family feuds he's witnessed after a client's death. He tells Metro some of the most common inheritance conflicts can be avoided with a little planning. So, get ready to talk about death. First things first, each person's will is unique to their situation. Typically, it specifies how an individual's property, money, other assets and possessions should be divided among beneficiaries. Bear in mind, 'beneficiaries' doesn't always mean family members or children. They could be charities or organisations. If a deceased has minor children (those under 18), a will can also name a guardian to care for them. In order for a will to be valid, it needs to be signed by the testator (the person who makes the will) in the presence of witnesses. Beneficiaries, spouses or civil partners are exempt. It also needs to meet legal requirements, including being a voluntary act, and the testator being of legal age. While dying with a will can still cause issues (as you'll later find out), not having one in place can lead to legal complexities. Plus, likely disputes about who should inherit your estate. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video 'Communication before the person dies is so important,' stresses Grice. 'We always encourage the people writing their will to discuss its contents with the beneficiaries while they're still alive.' @thismorning There's something that's maybe more important than a will, and that's a Power of Attorney. Martin Lewis arranged his when he was 35 and explains why you should consider it too as he answers a question from one of our viewers, James. ♬ original sound – This Morning – This Morning Below are three situations that Grice sees time and time again in his line of work. Unfortunately, he says it's often unintentional mistakes that cause huge fallouts. Unmarried partners, usually a second relationship after a marriage, can spark family rows. Typically, only if they were residing in the partner's home, and it wasn't under joint ownership. Grice explains: 'What can often happen is that someone writing their will will gift their property to their children.' Legally, this means that the deceased partner would have to leave, as it's now in the ownership of the beneficiaries. Aka the kids. Granted, in normal circumstances, we like to think that people aren't that harsh that they'd boot a grieving partner out of their own home. They'd at least give them some time to find somewhere else to live, before putting the house on the market. However, Grice says that sometimes, the deceased's children and the second partners may not have the best relationship. Whether the animosity is due to them being the reason their parents split up or just not clicking in general, it can lead to 'heated debates.' There are ways of avoiding this unintentional mistake, says Grice. 'As a solicitor, we'd recommend the testator set up certain types of trusts that allow the partner to live in the home while they're still alive. 'We see this a lot with ageing couples,' he explains, adding: 'We've had a situation where that partner hasn't left the home, which led to an escalation of events that got quite messy.' 'Due to a lack of communication before a death, people often don't explain their will in advance,' says Grice. Meaning, the testator won't sit down with the beneficiaries and read it, leaving them unaware of its contents until it's too late. 'The reading of the will is sometimes the first time people receive its information,' he notes. Cue potential family secrets causing chaos: 'We often see people listed in the will that others didn't know about. For example, an affair, or a second relationship that wasn't disclosed to the person's family while they were alive. But, have received a gift or some money in the will.' 'Not explaining wishes in advance – even though there are some things that should be discussed before a death – can cause so many problems.' Grice knows of people that were expecting to receive the entirety of an estate only receiving a little bit of inheritance. Imagine the shock of finding out that your mother or father had left some of their cash to someone you didn't even know existed… Sadly, this is the most common form of inheritance drama. According to Grice, it can present itself in multiple ways. Firstly, it could be that children aren't gifted the same amount in the will. 'There's an assumption that all children will get an equal share of the estate,' explains Grice. 'But what can often happen in life is that parents will start to gift things to each child before they die.' In the parents' minds, Grice says they then try to balance that out in the will. For example, if one child was gifted an expensive holiday overseas because they couldn't afford it, the other child may receive the vacation amount in the will, alongside whatever else they've been left. But, this may not be disclosed to the children before the death, which can cause sibling conflict. 'Another one involves the executor,' says Grice. This is the person named by the deceased to manage the will according to its instructions. The executor will do most of the work and will usually be either the oldest child or the one who is better with money, according to Grice. 'But it doesn't always go to plan,' he says, explaining that an executor can make decisions that the other siblings don't agree with, or feel left out of. More Trending 'If you had two children, and there was a disagreement between the beneficiaries, then the executor is the one who can ultimately make decisions, and that can lead to conflict,' he says. Grice notes that these rows normally revolve around sentimental items, like engagement or wedding rings. 'Unless it's listed in the person's will, executors can get involved,' he adds. Grice concludes: 'Even though they're not legally allowed, we often see the partners of the children get quite opinionated through the process as well, and that can cause sibling arguments.' View More » Bottom line? Get that will sorted, people. MORE: Boy, 16, killed in Sheffield 'hit and run' was walking 'to pick up a takeaway' MORE: 'Mushroom killer searched online for deadly mushrooms' before in-laws deaths MORE: Cheers star George Wendt's cause of death revealed after death aged 76 Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.
Forbes
24-04-2025
- Business
- Forbes
7 Steps For Tariff-Proofing Your Personal And Professional Life
Recent tariff war fears have contributed to a climate of worry and unpredictability, creating a wave of anxiety that can threaten our personal and financial objectives. As tariffs have become more of a reality, U.S. companies warn of closures and layoffs. Threats of economic uncertainty and workplace issues continue to weigh on workers, taking a tremendous toll on their mental health, creating fears of layoffs and a reduction in consumer confidence. It might seem like there's little you can do to alleviate worry, but experts advise there are actions you can take for tariff-proofing your life. Mental Health Awareness Month is just around the corner in May. And this is a perfect time to explore how to tariff-proof your life. No matter who you are, where you live or who you work for, the implementation of tariffs will affect your pocket book and your mental well-being. If you're worried about job security amid escalating tariff threats, chances are you're wondering what you can do. So it's a good plan to think ahead on how you can best cope with this inevitable consequence before it gains full force. I spoke by email about this topic with certified purpose coach and business strategist Jackie B. Grice. She acknowledges that tariff threats have contributed to a climate of fear and unpredictability. As a result, Grice emphasizes the vital role that health and wellness practices play in achieving both business success and mental clarity, particularly in today's climate of economic and political uncertainty. 'In this challenging landscape, it is crucial that we do not succumb to panic,' Grice cautions. 'Rather, by adopting a proactive approach to mental well-being, individuals can effectively navigate these obstacles while remaining focused on their goals.' She believes that prioritizing mental health cultivates resilience and clarity and empowers us to thrive, even in the face of external pressures. Grice offers seven steps to tariff-proof your life. 1. Self-Assessment. 'Begin with an honest evaluation of your current state—mentally, spiritually and financially. Identify the factors that are weighing you down, then reflect, reset and rebuild on a solid foundation. This will serve as your anchor during turbulent times. Remember, one cannot afford to be shaken by external pressures, such as discussions around tariffs; instead, focus on maintaining stability and clarity in your personal and professional objectives.' 2. Create a Vision Book. 'Clearly outline your goals in a dedicated vision journal. This vision will serve as your compass, helping you to align your actions with your true purpose, independent of external influences. By documenting your aspirations, you establish a tangible framework that keeps you focused and motivated on your path to success.' 3. Audit Your Circle. 'Surround yourself with 'vision carriers' who uplift and inspire you. Take the time to assess whether the individuals in your life are contributing positively or creating friction. Opt for those who add value instead of draining your energy. Your community should foster a sense of safety, support and strategic alignment, empowering you to pursue your goals with confidence and clarity.' 4. Align Values with Vision. "Ensure that your actions resonate with your values. Implement the things that align with your true 'yes,' and be prepared to say no to what doesn't. This alignment is crucial for maintaining integrity and focus as you work towards your objectives." 5. Develop Grit. 'Foster emotional resilience by embracing discomfort as a pathway to growth. Consistency in your efforts is key; it is this resilience that constitutes your true wealth during challenging times. By developing grit, you equip yourself to navigate obstacles with determination and strength, ultimately enhancing your capacity for success.' 6. Establish Vision-Aligned Habits. 'Create daily routines that reflect your future aspirations, not past experiences. These habits will serve as a protective buffer against chaos, helping you maintain a state of flow. Remember, small daily actions can lead to significant, lasting impact. By cultivating habits that align with your vision, you position yourself for long-term success and fulfillment.' 7. Know Your Number. 'Financial clarity fosters spiritual clarity. Take the time to clearly define your financial objectives, develop a strategic plan to attain them and focus on managing your purpose rather than merely pursuing monetary gain. Maintain discipline regarding your financial goals, and adopt a backward planning approach to effectively reach your desired outcomes. This mindset will empower you to create a more meaningful and aligned financial future.' 'By embracing these seven steps, American workers can transform uncertainty into opportunity,' Grice assures. 'These steps provide the tools needed to build resilience, align actions with purpose and achieve long-term success—empowering workers to navigate challenges with confidence and clarity.' You don't need anyone to tell you that we're living in confusing and difficult times right now. And the tariff war only adds to the emotional uncertainty and possibility of future worries. Your greatest ally is YOU. Tariff-proofing your life can bring you peace of mind. Start with noticing your catastrophic mind chatter. Zoom out and use the tool of 'past recall'--thinking about how your tariff fears compare with other fears you managed effectively in the past. Also remember you're not alone. The entire nation is in this unstable boat, riding the turbulent waves with you. So focus on what you can control around you and let go of the rest and bring yourself peace of mind.
Los Angeles Times
01-04-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Spring Reset: How to Rebalance Your Skin Microbiome After a Long Winter
Spring is a season of reinvention. We swap heavy coats for light layers, refresh our playlists, and rediscover the simple joy of sunlit afternoons. But while we're busy clearing out closets and color-coding calendars, there's one refresh that's often overlooked: our skin's microbiome. Yes, your skin has its own microbiome. And just like your gut, it's sensitive to seasonal shifts. 'Spring brings blooming flowers, warmer temperatures, and an invisible challenge, shifts in your skin's delicate microbiome,' says Dr. Colleen Cutcliffe, co-founder and CEO of Pendulum Therapeutics. 'Seasonal changes, such as increased pollen, higher temperatures, and fluctuating humidity, can disrupt the microbial community living on your skin, weakening its protective barrier and causing irritation, dryness, or breakouts.' If you've ever wondered why your skin feels tight and flaky in winter, only to break out the minute April rolls around, the answer might lie not in your products but in your skin's ecosystem. Understanding and supporting this living layer can make all the difference, especially during seasonal transitions. Let's break down how your skin microbiome is affected by spring, what science says, and how you can tweak your routine to maintain that healthy, post-winter glow — no 12-step regimen required. Think of your skin as a living city, populated by trillions of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, even viruses), all working symbiotically to keep your complexion calm, clear, and resilient. This microbial community is what scientists call the skin microbiome, and it's essential to your overall skin health. 'The skin microbiome is essential for maintaining balance and protecting against harmful pathogens,' write Grice and Segre in Nature Reviews Microbiology. Different areas of your body host different microbial neighborhoods (your forehead is very different from your armpits, for instance), and these communities shift with age, environment, hormones, and yes, the seasons. Winter is harsh and drying, with low humidity, indoor heating, and layers of clothing that trap sweat and bacteria. Then, suddenly: spring. You're stepping outside into warmer temps, increased UV exposure, fluctuating humidity, and, you guessed it, pollen season. 'All of these changes affect the microbial balance on your skin,' says Dr. Cutcliffe. 'And when your microbiome is off, your skin barrier can weaken, leading to dryness, inflammation, or breakouts.' In a 2022 review published in Mechanisms of Ageing and Development, researchers found that microbial diversity declines with age and environmental stress, making routine adjustments even more important to maintain skin health as conditions shift. So, if your skin suddenly starts freaking out around the spring equinox? You're not imagining it. Here's the thing: You don't need a complete product overhaul every time the weather changes. But you do need to pay attention to how your skin feels and how its environment is changing. Let's talk strategy — science-backed, microbiome-friendly tips to transition your skincare routine with the season. After months of rich creams and heavy occlusives, you may be tempted to reach for that exfoliating scrub. Resist the urge. Over-cleansing or stripping the skin can disturb your microbiome, especially as it's trying to rebalance with spring's new conditions. Look for pH-balanced, non-foaming cleansers that support—not strip—your skin. Cleansers that are too alkaline can alter the skin's acidity, allowing unwanted microbes to thrive. As humidity rises, your skin may produce more oil — but that doesn't mean you can skip hydration. Swap out your heavy-duty winter cream for a lighter, microbiome-friendly moisturizer packed with humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients attract moisture without clogging pores. And don't toss your moisturizer in the name of 'letting your skin breathe' — skin doesn't have lungs. What it does need is support for its natural barrier. Probiotic skincare has entered the chat. Whether you're applying live cultures topically or supporting them from the inside with fermented foods or probiotic supplements, these tiny allies help crowd out the 'bad' bacteria and reinforce your skin's defense system. 'A balanced microbiome not only improves digestion but also nourishes your skin, creating that sought-after 'glow from within,'' says Dr. Cutcliffe. The gut-skin axis is real, and researchers continue to uncover how the microbiota in your digestive tract can influence skin inflammation, acne, eczema, and even aging. It's not just what you slather on your skin — it's what's happening inside your body that affects your glow. In fact, the term 'gut-skin axis' has become a key concept in dermatology. 'Modulating the gut microbiome could be a therapeutic strategy for skin disorders,' notes the World Journal of Dermatology. What that means in practical terms: your skin reflects your gut health. That spring bloat? That post-brunch breakout? Possibly connected. So, along with your skincare swap, consider upping your prebiotic and fiber intake, drinking more water, and incorporating fermented foods like kefir, kimchi, or miso into your diet. Yes, we're saying it again: stress affects your skin. And your microbiome. As Byrd and Belkaid explain, psychological stressors can disrupt microbial equilibrium, triggering inflammation and exacerbating skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema. Spring is an ideal time to reevaluate your mental wellness rituals. Consider breathwork, short meditations, nature walks, or journaling as ways to calm your nervous system and, in turn, support your skin. Here's your quick, microbiome-friendly cheat sheet for spring: Spring may bring its share of skincare curveballs, but it also brings renewal — both for your complexion and your overall health. Your microbiome is constantly adapting to your environment, and with a little help, it can thrive in every season. 'Proactively adjusting your routine during seasonal transitions helps your microbiome adapt,' says Dr. Cutcliffe. 'Keeping your skin barrier robust means your complexion stays clear and balanced.' In other words, your glow-up starts with your microbes.
Yahoo
01-03-2025
- Yahoo
Worcester man found guilty in 2020 King Street murder case
WORCESTER, Mass. (WWLP) – A Worcester Superior Court jury found a man guilty of murder in the 2020 death of a man on King Street. Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early said that 39-year-old Jacob Grice of Worcester was found guilty of first-degree murder on Wednesday after a ten-day trial. Former Northeastern University counselor sentenced to prison for child pornography charges The conviction comes following the alleged homicide of 31-year-old Darren Dyette on August 3, 2020, when he was shot six times in the head and neck on King Street in Worcester. Grice was also convicted of possession of ammunition without an FID card. Grice's then-girlfriend, 31-year-old Amber Gravel, has also been charged in connection with the murder. Charging documents state that Gravel allegedly lured Dyette to King Street where his cousin lived, and Grice proceeded to shoot him multiple times after he exited his vehicle. Gravel was arraigned in Worcester Superior Court on the charge of murder and held without bail in November 2020. She is scheduled to appear in court on March 6. The first-degree murder conviction carries a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole. Grice's sentencing is scheduled for March 12. WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
