News & Updates

Our blogs keep you up to date with legal issues that may affect you and your family, along with the latest developments from April King.

3 Bizarre Things People Have Left in Wills

When most people think about inheritances, the usual suspects come to mind: money, property, or maybe a cherished piece of jewellery passed down over generations.

But every so often, Wills include something truly unexpected. These unusual bequests leave us shaking our heads, laughing, or wondering about the intentions behind them.

From eccentric gestures to outright bizarre requests, these famous Wills prove that final wishes are sometimes too peculiar to ignore.

Here are three of the strangest inheritance stories and the lessons they offer about planning your own Will.

1. A Ghost

Yes, you read that right. This inheritance centres around the infamous “Ghostbusters ruling” from the case of Stambovsky v. Ackley. A New York court declared a house officially haunted because the seller had marketed it that way.

The property had originally been inherited by the seller’s nephew, who later put it up for sale. When the buyer, Jeffrey Stambovsky, discovered its spooky reputation after agreeing to the purchase, he took legal action to back out.

The court ruled in his favour, resulting in one of the strangest cases of supernatural inheritance on record.

It’s probably a relief to many that inheriting a ghost isn’t something the law can actually enforce. If you’re passing on property, make sure you disclose any unusual details, including reputational quirks like a haunted history!

2. A Pet’s Fortune 

When it comes to spoiling pets, hotel tycoon Leona Helmsley truly went the extra mile. She left a staggering $12 million to her beloved Maltese, Trouble, ensuring the pup continued to live a life of utter luxury.  

But not everyone agreed with her decision. Helmsley’s family contested the Will, and the court eventually reduced Trouble’s inheritance to a still-generous $2 million. Yet this case sparked discussions about laws on leaving assets to non-human beneficiaries.  

While it’s perfectly acceptable to include provisions for pet care in your Will, excessive sums could prompt disputes. Arrangements for pets should be practical, realistic and properly drafted by a professional.

3. Houdini’s Séances

Magician and escape artist Harry Houdini made an unusual request in his Will. He asked his wife to hold a séance every year on the anniversary of his death, in the hope of contacting him from beyond the grave.

He promised his wife, Bess, that if it were possible to communicate with the dead, he would come back to her, should he die first. And he gave her a code to help prove it. But after 10 years with no success, Bess stopped trying to contact her husband.

Although his wife eventually gave up the tradition, Houdini’s fans have kept it going, turning it into a curious ritual that takes place every Halloween.

Why You Need a Properly Structured Will

While these stories offer plenty of entertainment, they also underscore an important point.

Without a properly structured Will, even sincere attempts to inherit valued or significant items can backfire. Legal disputes, unenforceable provisions, or unintended consequences can easily overshadow your true intentions.

Avoid These Common Pitfalls:

  • Lack of clarity can lead to confusion or misinterpretation.  
  • Overly complex or bizarre requests that would be legally unenforceable.  
  • Poorly drafted Wills may leave your loved ones caught up in legal mediation or extremely costly court cases.  

Get Your Free Legacy Planning Guide

Intrigued by these famous Wills but concerned about getting your own wishes right? We’ve created a free legacy planning guide to help you understand how we can help ensure you leave behind a positive and secure inheritance.

Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. No responsibility is accepted for any action taken or not taken based on the content of this article. Readers should seek appropriate professional advice tailored to their circumstances before making decisions. April King Legal will not be held liable for any loss or damage arising from reliance on this information.