Specifying beneficiaries in a Will

The recent press coverage over the sad passing of actor Mickey Rooney and the revelations over the contents of his Will have highlighted the importance of having a legally valid Will if you want to be able to specify who will inherit your estate.

The Hollywood star died earlier this month and, despite his long-running acting career, apparently left an estate worth only around US$18,000, reports the Sydney Morning Herald.

Mr Rooney left behind a large family, as he had been married eight times and had eight biological children as well as a number of stepchildren.

However, under the terms of his Will, he disinherited his children and his current wife, from whom he was estranged, and instead left his entire estate to a stepson, who had become Mr Rooney's carer.

His wife will however still be entitled to his pensions and Social Security, under the terms of a previous agreement.

There are a number of difficulties in drawing up a Will that includes certain family members but leaves out others, and such Wills are much more likely to be challenged in court. Professional legal advice is essential.

Contact us

If you are thinking of contesting, making or updating a Will then it is important to seek expert legal advice as quickly as possible. Contact Szabo & Associates Solicitors today and speak with one of our specialist solicitors. Call us on (02) 9281-5088 or fill in the contact form to the right of this page.