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  • Legacy Lexicon
Whilst there are some proposals for reform, the effects of a predatory marriage are wide ranging and very difficult to undo legally. It is therefore the best approach for a concerned family to keep in touch with their relative and to act swiftly where a predatory marriage is suspected... 16 Jun
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Law Reform

Predatory Marriages: Is Law Reform Coming to the UK?

Successful family business succession requires balancing emotional and rational considerations, family harmony and business performance, tradition and innovation. It demands honest self-assessment, difficult conversations, and sometimes painful decisions. 06 Jun
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Succession Lessons

Mastering Family Business Succession Planning

Inheritance disputes are on the rise. One of the reasons for this is a significant increase in the number of blended families. We are calling this the Cinderella Dilemma... 27 May
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Family Disputes

The Cinderella Dilemma: Protecting Your Children’s Inheritance

The Law Commission recognises that we need a legal framework that reflects modern life— where people live longer, face complex health issues, and increasingly rely on digital tools. This article outlines key areas of reform and the impact they may have. 19 May
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Law Reform

Modernising the Law of Wills: Law Commission Report 2025 (UK)

Following an apparent suicide, a wealthy patriarch's will and testament surprisingly leaves virtually nothing of his wealth to his third wife and two sons. 30 Apr
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Dramatized Content, Family Disputes

I, Jack Wright | British TV Drama | 2025

On occasions a will may have been prepared in such a manner that it is not clear precisely what the testator intended. Competing interpretations can often lead to a dispute between parties... 19 Mar
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Communication Breakdowns, Curated Content

What Happens When a Will is Vague or Ambiguous?

Dealing with a loved one’s digital assets after their death can be complicated, especially in the absence of a clear legal framework. This article will take you through what a digital asset is and how to handle them. 12 Feb
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Digital Distress

Handling Digital Assets: Legal Considerations in the UK

The "Marley v Rawlings" case —which concerned attempts to rectify a mistake made by a couple when signing their mirror wills— serves as a reminder of the necessity for attention to detail to avoid estate disputes. 31 Jan
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Communication Breakdowns, Curated Content

Marley v Rawlings: A Case Study in Clerical Errors & Mirror Wills

There are numerous factors at play in this increase in probate disputes; we have an ageing population, with diverse family members and estates that are worth increasing amounts. Couple that with people being more aware that they can bring some sort of claim, and there is a perfect recipe for an increase in claims. 10 Jan
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Frequently Asked Questions

What is Causing the Increase in Contentious Probate Claims?

Glossary of Legal Terms Used in Probate: England & Wales 02 Jan
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Legacy Lexicon

Glossary of Legal Terms Used in Probate: England & Wales

Sudden Wealth Syndrome is a psychological condition that affects individuals who come into large amounts of money unexpectedly. Whether through an inheritance, lottery win, or investing, the sudden influx of wealth can be overwhelming... 14 Nov
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Squandered Legacies

Understanding Sudden Wealth Syndrome: Risks & Safeguards

Inheritance disputes are as old as time, but in recent years, there’s been an increase in families embroiled in legal arguments. Here are the various stances on inheritance disputes, 2024 statistics, and the demographics of those discussing the topic online.  18 Oct
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Family Disputes

Inheritance Dispute Statistics: 2024 Rising Trends

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Recent:

A will is intended to provide clear instructions about the distribution of a person’s property after death. But what happens when an important clause is missing? This recent Ontario court case is a useful reminder of the difficulties that can arise...

What Happens When a Will is Missing an Important Clause?

In many cases, an executor’s first instinct is not to call a lawyer. It is to ask Google. The problem? Google can provide thousands of answers, many of which are incomplete, inaccurate, or based on another jurisdiction. Executors need practical guidance tailored to the particular estate they are administering.

Cautionary Guidance for Executors: Google at Your Own Risk!

Many people hear “executor” and think it means reading the will and writing a few checks. In reality, executors can face personal liability. Find out exactly what you're agreeing to, before you agree...

Agreeing To Serve As Executor: Not As Simple As It Sounds

Holograph wills and codicils are often viewed as a simple and inexpensive way to record testamentary wishes. Ironically, the very simplicity that makes holograph codicils attractive can also make them extraordinarily vulnerable...

Ontario Case Study: The Hidden Risks of a DIY Codicil

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