A recent case heard by the Court of Appeal highlighted the importance of attention to detail when making a will after one simple error has left the intended heir disinherited. 

Thirteen years ago, Mr and Mrs Rawlings signed mirror wills, leaving their estate to each other and, following both their deaths, to Mr Terry Marley whom they considered a son although he is not directly related to them. Mrs Rawlings died first and the estate passed in total to Mr Rawlings. Following his death in 2006 it was discovered that the couple had signed the each others’ wills rather than their own.  Mr and Mrs Rawlings’ sons contested their father’s will stating that as Mr Rawling’s will was signed by the wrong person it was invalid.  The High Court agreed and ruled that Mr Rawlings was to be treated as having died intestate (without a will). 

Although the Rawlings’ intentions were clear, this simple mistake has left Mr Marley disinherited.  

Breens wills and probate solicitors have many years’ experience in will writing giving you the peace of mind that when making a will, your intended heirs will receive their inheritance. Sarah Charnley who heads up the private client department is a member of STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners). 

For more information on our will writing service contact our wills and probate department for Southport and Liverpool on 0151 928 6544.