With the festive season in full swing, people are being cautioned of a potential error that could see their inheritance lost to family disagreements. Research indicates that one in five individuals might exclude relatives from their will after fallout, while a whole third would do so simply due to dislike.
The study also revealed that neglecting family visits or isolating oneself from kin could lead one in six and one in four people, respectively, to disinherit a loved one.
Lime Solicitors’ partner specialising in inheritance disputes, Debra Burton, has commented on the matter, stating: “The most common reason people exclude relatives from their will is due to personal feelings and animosity.”
She added: “With so many family members coming together in close proximity, Christmas celebrations can often bring unresolved tensions to the surface.”
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Burton further cautioned that such tensions, when exacerbated, could lead to decisions against including certain family members in wills.
Moreover, the solicitors’ findings suggest that nearly half the population would contest a will if they found themselves omitted. Burton offers proactive advice for handling this delicate issue over the holiday period.
Stressing the importance of clear communication, she advises discussing inheritance wishes openly with family to avoid shock when the will is read. Additionally, Burton warns against making non-committal promises, suggesting it’s preferable to abstain from offhand remarks that others might take to heart or depend upon.
The partner also urged people to formalise their wishes: Make a will and set out what you actually want to happen rather than leaving it all to one person because “they know what I want to happen”. Even if the family gets on, it is a lot of pressure to put on someone who may not be sure of what your wishes were and are likely to be grieving themselves.