Soaring Inheritance Disputes Reported

It is being reported, that there was a huge spike regarding disputes over inheritance mattersduring 2021.

The increase has surprised many within the legal profession, which has amounted to a 72% rise. This is partly due to relatives quarrelling and arguing over smaller amounts as well as larger asset values. Very often, this is evident where the Deceased left no Will and instead, the laws of Intestacy (dying without a valid Will) come into play. Very often, the strict rules may overlook the true wishes or intentions of the Deceased, regarding the distribution of their assets. There is a need, to take a strong and proactive approach, to ensuring that not only is a valid Will made, but that expert advice should be obtained regarding it.

Antony Oswin, the Senior Legal Practitioner at Achieve Legal Services says “There is a growing number of fractionalised and tense family relationships emerging in these modern days. Often, disagreements and a sense of entitlement to someone’s Estate, can lead to deep family rifts and hugely expensive legal battles. If you have no Will, then you should make one. Everyone should have a Will fi they own property or a business or have savings”.

On the issue of existing Wills that may have been written some time ago, it is important to revisit them and update them as necessary. otherwise, you could end up with an estranged person (Beneficiary) receiving an inheritance that you now do not wish to give. Antony adds “For the sake of a few hundred Pounds and expert advice, people can save themselves a lot of worry and avoid those expensive, argumentative family battles in the future. This should be borne in mind particularly upon entering new relationships, marriage or in circumstances where there may be complex family dynamics”.

Achieve Legal have a dedicated service dealing with Wills, Inheritance and Estate matters. Contact us today for a friendly, no obligation consultation.