Inheritance Disputes on the Rise | Protect Your Family

Inheritance disputes are on the rise – here’s how to protect your family

Inheritance disputes are on the rise across the UK, with more than 1 in 5 adults saying they’d consider challenging a will or inheritance if they felt it was unfair or didn’t reflect what the person actually wanted.

It’s a trend we’re seeing more of at Ansons. And in most cases, a bit of forward planning could have prevented it entirely.

Every family’s situation is different, but there are a few things anyone can do right now to make sure their loved ones aren’t left dealing with unnecessary conflict further down the line.

Write a will

Nearly half of UK adults are worried that an outdated or missing will could cause disputes – yet 48% still don’t have one in place. If you’re in that group, this is your nudge.

Without a will, your family can be left exposed to real uncertainty. According to research from the Association of Lifetime Lawyers, not having a will is one of the leading causes of inheritance disputes. It’s one of the most straightforward things you can do, and one of the most important.

Keep your will up to date

A will isn’t something you write once and forget about. It should evolve as your life does.

As a rule of thumb, it’s worth reviewing your will every five years – or sooner if something significant changes. That might be getting married, becoming a grandparent, a shift in your finances, starting a business, a bereavement, or a beneficiary obtaining a Gender Recognition Certificate. If your will no longer reflects your situation, it needs updating.

Have the conversation

Nobody enjoys talking about what happens when they’re gone. But having those conversations early – while you can – makes a real difference.

When your loved ones know what to expect, there are fewer surprises, less room for misunderstanding, and a much lower risk of disputes later. It’s not just about the practical side either. Knowing your wishes are understood gives everyone a bit more peace of mind, including you.

Ready to get started?

If you haven’t looked at your will recently – or you’ve never had one drawn up – now is a good time to sort it.

At Ansons, our wills and probate solicitors work with families across the Midlands to put clear, legally sound plans in place. Whether you’re starting from scratch or need to update an existing will, we can help you get it right.

Get in touch with the team at ansons.co.uk or call your nearest office in Cannock, Lichfield, Sutton Coldfield or Dudley.

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This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have a specific query, please contact us directly.