If you have a blended family, it is important to make a Will that accurately reflects what you want to happen in the future. Recent research carried out by the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) has found that inheritance disputes are increasing within blended step families. Of those questioned, 71% agreed that the
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After a death, the personal representatives of the deceased have the job of winding up the estate. If they don’t want to take on the role, they need to avoid intermeddling. Intermeddling is taking action to deal with the estate as if someone has the right to do so, and as if they will be
What is intermeddling in estate administration? Read More »
If the executors or administrators of an estate cannot find a beneficiary, it can complicate matters. We look at how to handle missing beneficiaries, and the precautions that need to be taken to avoid future legal claims. Following a death, beneficiaries will either be named in the deceased’s Will or, if there is no valid
What happens if there is a missing beneficiary after somebody dies? Read More »
As contentious probate disputes continue to increase, no contest clauses in Wills are on the rise in an attempt to stop beneficiaries from making a legal challenge. A no contest clause, also referred to as a forfeiture clause, makes a bequest in a Will conditional upon the beneficiary not making a claim against the estate.
What is a no contest clause in a Will, and should you include one? Read More »
If your family does not have a traditional structure, you need to have a clear understanding of how inheritance will work. Where there are cohabiting partners, new spouses, same-sex relationships, children from a former relationship, or blended families, the law can be complex. It is crucial to ensure you have the right Will in place
Understanding inheritance for modern family structures Read More »
Putting a valid Will in place is crucial to ensure your estate will pass to your loved ones in the way that you want and that disputes between family members will be avoided. But reviewing and updating your Will regularly is just as vital. Find out when you should consider making changes. It’s easy to
When should you update your Will? Read More »
Ministry of Justice figures have revealed that over the past five years, the number of Wills disputes reaching the courts has increased by a shocking 61%. Disagreements after a death can be very damaging, both to family relationships, and to finances, with protracted litigation likely to place a strain on estate funds. What is causing
Why are Wills disputes on the increase? Read More »
While it is possible to gift your home to your children, there are numerous implications. It is important to understand the effect the gift could have on your rights, the financial position of both you and your children, and what tax or other liabilities could arise. Additionally, it is not legally possible to give away
Can I gift property to my children? Read More »
Estates being stolen after death of individuals with no Will A recent investigation by the BBC has exposed the extent of thefts carried out in cases where someone dies without a Will. The report, published in early July 2025, looked at the estates of several deceased individuals who had not left a Will. It found
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What happens if someone dies and their Will is invalid? The rules surrounding making and signing a Will are strict, and when mistakes are made, a Will could be invalid. We look at what happens if someone has died and their Will cannot be used. Having a Will professionally drafted is the best way to
What happens if someone dies and their Will is invalid? Read More »