Estrangements: Are Some Firms Stuck in the Dark Ages?
Did you know that, according to Psychology Today, at least one in four people experience estrangement from a family member? This is a significant issue that can have profound implications for estate planning.
Where an estranged family member is present, many advisors are still spinning cobwebs with outdated advice—putting your entire estate at risk and potentially leading to significant financial loss.
At April King, we understand the harsh reality: A poorly planned Will can lead to devastating court battles, drained inheritances, and outcomes far from what you intended. This can leave your loved ones dealing with significant financial, emotional, and legal challenges.
Despite seeing hundreds of Wills each year where we have been contacted for a second opinion, we still see clients who were failed by poor advice, relying on practices better suited to the last century than today’s legal landscape.
From High Cost to High Court
Many still believe that a simple letter of wishes or other non-legally binding documents are enough to protect your estate from claims such as the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. This is simply not true.
Recent cases, like Howe v Howe, prove how vulnerable your Will can be to a challenge. Despite years of estrangement, Jenna Howe successfully claimed £125,000 from her late father’s estate after the court ruled that her financial needs outweighed his written wishes. The legal costs of such disputes often wipe out inheritances, leaving your chosen beneficiaries with far less than you intended.
The reality is that many generalist firms are dangerously behind the times when it comes to navigating these complex family dynamics. We understand this is a highly emotional conversation. We take pride in guiding our clients with care and empathy while always providing advice that is in their and their family’s best interests—something many advisors may shy away from.
Why a Specialist Approach is Essential in Estate Planning
The landscape of inheritance disputes has changed dramatically, with each successful claim creating a precedent for future cases. Today, successful challenges by estranged children are rising, and the courts are more willing than ever to override a testator’s wishes.
At April King Legal, we understand these cases inside out because we see them every day; we’re at the forefront of modern estate planning and Inheritance Act strategies.
“We do not make changes for the sake of making them, but we never fail to make a change when once it is demonstrated that the new way is better than the old way.” – Henry Ford.
With April King Legal, you’re choosing a firm ranked among the best and renowned for leading the field in complex inheritance matters, as demonstrated by our ranking within the Legal 500. Inclusion recognises the work we do to deliver the very best advice and standard of service to our clients, giving you the confidence that your estate is in expert hands.
If you have an estranged family member and are considering how this will impact your estate plan, contact our team today for a free, no-obligation initial consultation. When protecting your estate, we’re always one step ahead.
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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.
