Confusion about inheritance ‘is easy without Wills’

Posted 15/03/2010

A large proportion of family feuds regarding inheritance could be avoided if Britons made sure they had Wills.

This is the suggestion of Nimi Akinkugbe, who said in an article for financial advice website Next that emotions can run high when it comes to dividing up the property of the deceased, particularly if it is not clear in legal terms who should get what.

She recommended that anyone with assets, particularly if they have dependents, should get in touch with a lawyer specialising in estate planning in order to get a current Will drawn up.

“With careful thought and planning and professional advice, one can mitigate much of the potential conflict and leave a lasting legacy,” Ms Akinkugbe concluded.

Research carried out recently by the Fellowship of Professional Willwriters and Probate Practitioners found that apathy could be a big problem when it comes to making Wills.

A survey of 18 to 30-year-olds found that 85 per cent have not yet had one drawn up, with a quarter saying they feel too young to do so.