If I cohabit, what happens to my estate when I die?
Although the dynamics may be the same as with a marriage or civil partnership, cohabiting couples are not afforded the same legal protection when a partner passes away without a Will.
The law never stands still, and the way it applies to you and your organisation is constantly evolving. Our people are on top of these developments and can keep you up to date with some of the most interesting aspects of these changes. Check out our articles and updates for our perspective on issues that might affect you.
Although the dynamics may be the same as with a marriage or civil partnership, cohabiting couples are not afforded the same legal protection when a partner passes away without a Will.
Leigh Beirne is an Associate in our Private Client team advising individuals and families. Here she looks at the whole issue of how care home fees can impact on your assets.
An interesting article recently featured in the press, detailing a family feud that occurred between Venetia Murray and her brother, Dale Brunt, over the £2 million inheritance of their brother Dean, who died tragically in an accident at the age of 35. By recording your wishes in a Will, you can avoid the anguish not to mention the time and cost suffered by the Brunt family in this scenario.
A recent BBC News article has reported that solicitors in the UK have seen a spike in the number of enquiries relating to updating or making a Will. This would seem inevitable given the Coronavirus pandemic.
The High Court in England has recently issued its ruling in an interesting case involving the disinheritance of Christopher Gosden, whose mother left the bulk of her £1.25 million estate to her civil partner.