The Dangers of an Out-of-Date Will

An interesting case from the UK has provided a clear demonstration of how important it is to update your Will to reflect any changes in your personal circumstances, such as getting married, divorced or having children.

The case in question concerned the estate of Norman Martin, who separated from his wife Maureen in 1994 and began a cohabiting relationship with Joy Williams, which lasted until Mr Martin’s death in 2012, reports the Independent.

Unfortunately however, Mr Martin never divorced his estranged wife and did not update his Will. As a result, when he died his half-share of the home he owned with Ms Williams passed to Maureen Martin, even though the couple had been separated for 18 years.

Ms Williams went to court to make a claim for financial provision against her partner’s estate, and although this claim was contested by Mrs Martin, the judge has now ruled in favour of Ms Williams and awarded her Mr Martin’s full share in the house.

Although Ms Williams was ultimately successful, this case clearly shows the problems that can face family and friends when a loved one dies without an up-to-date Will. Dealing with bereavement is inherently stressful and emotional, and any uncertainty about the wishes of the deceased can only complicate this already difficult time.

Contact our Wills Solicitors Sydney & NSW

If you would like to discuss updating your Will, then contact Szabo & Associates, Solicitors today. Our expert solicitors can advise you on a wide range of legal matters, including estate planning, and contesting, making or updating a Will. Please contact George Szabo today on (02) 9281-5088 or fill in the contact form to the right of this page.

Source:

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/grandmother-who-lived-with-partner-until-his-death-wins-high-court-battle-after-his-estranged-wife-a6877891.html