Disney's grandchildren in inheritance dispute

A bitter inheritance dispute relating to two of Walt Disney's grandchildren is currently being heard in a California courtroom, reports the Telegraph.

The case centres on Brad and Michelle Lund, 43-year-old twins who were left an inheritance worth around US$300 million when their mother Sharon - Walt Disney's daughter - died in 1993. The inheritance is held in trust and managed by trustees on their behalf.

Under the terms of Sharon's Will, the twins were to receive 20% of their trust funds when they reached the ages of 35, 40 and again when they turned 45.

However, according to the Telegraph, her Will also allowed the trustees not to make the payments if either twin had not "demonstrated the maturity and financial ability to manage and utilise such funds in a prudent and reasonable manner".

Problems began when Michelle received a payment but her brother's was withheld by trustees as they claimed he suffers from a "chronic cognitive disability" and wouldn't be able to manage his wealth properly.

This claim is denied by Brad and his father Bill, who have apparently accused the trustees of breach of trust and are demanding that they be removed from their posts.

The court hearing began on 5th December and was expected to last several weeks, reports the Telegraph.

If you are thinking about challenging a Will make sure you act quickly. In NSW, for example, you have only twelve months from the date on which the Will-maker passed away in which to contest a Will.

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