How to avoid inheritance disputes

Inheritance disputes are on the rise - from 97 cases in 2013, to 164 by 2015. While legal professionals attribute this trend partly to rising home values, there could be further complications due to modern family dynamics such as divorces, second marriages and stepchildren involved with the inheritance process.

Property prices have skyrocketed, leaving many families feeling the pinch. As a result of this boom in wealth creation, some modern family dynamics can be complex and often lead to disputes that require legal expertise for resolution. Divorce cases from blended households are becoming increasingly common as second marriages unite stepchildren with half siblings under one roof.

How to avoid disputes:

Make a will and ensure it’s up to date

Without a Will, 27 million UK adults risk leaving their loved ones in the dark about how to divide up their estate when they die. Instead of ensuring that their wishes are fulfilled, relatives must adhere to Intestacy law which may not adequately benefit them as intended by the deceased.

To prevent this from happening, it's essential for everyone - especially those with family changes like births or deaths - to regularly review and update all existing Wills so no one is left out who shouldn't be.

Speak to a will-writing solicitor

Although DIY Wills may seem like a cost-saving solution, without professional advice there is no guarantee that your Will will be legally binding. Incorrect spelling or language choices and failed to follow the witnessing requirements are all factors that can invalidate a document. 

Moreover, you could potentially miss out on tax benefits and risk disputes from family members if instructions left in an incorrectly worded Will are open to interpretation.

Speak to your beneficiaries

Prevent confusion, discord and potential conflict among your loved ones - ensure that everyone is aware of the intentions you have set out in your Will.

Take an extra step to protect yourself and those you care about by discussing or writing down a letter outlining why certain assets are being left to specific beneficiaries.

This way, there will be no room for misunderstandings when it's time for its execution; allowing them the peace-of-mind they deserve at such a difficult time.