You may have seen the article in recent press relating to Dr Christine Gill, the successful claimant in a case in which she challenged her mother's will.

Dr Gill was the only child of John and Joyce Gill who left their combined estate of £2.34 million to the RSPCA. Dr Gill, a university lecturer, challenged her mother's will on the basis that her father had coerced her mother to write a will that was at odds with her true intentions. The Court heard that Mrs Gill was a quiet lady who lacked confidence and was completely dependant on her husband and that he exploited her vulnerability.

Over a period of 30 years prior to her parents' death Dr Gill had enjoyed a perfectly normal relationship with her parents, devoting much of her free time to working on their farm. She had been repeatedly assured that she would be the beneficiary of that farm in their wills. After her father's death in 1999 Dr Gill took over care of her mother and of the farm but it was not until Mrs Gill's death in 2006 that Dr Gill saw her mother's will which left her entire estate to the charity.

In the above case both Mr and Mrs Gill had sought professional advice in the drafting of their wills.
We encourage all of our clients to discuss the provision made in their wills, especially if this may result in potential beneficiaries being disappointed in their inheritance, and lead to a dispute in the future.

Our team of private client and specialist litigation lawyers are increasingly instructed by clients in relation to disputes arising from family inheritances, wills and trusts. We are currently acting for clients with similar cases to Dr Gill. Our team can assist with disputes arising from trusts and wills and are happy to discuss any particular issues you may have.

To speak to a member of our Private Client team please contact Sarah Banner by email: sarah.banner@howespercival.com or by telephone 01604 230400.