Court battles over estates multiply threefold

Figures released recently show that battles in Court where an executor of a Will is accused of mishandling an estate have multiplied threefold in the past 12 months.

In 2013, there were 368 claims against executors compared to 107 in 2012 and only 47 in 2010. The huge surge is put down to an increase in the number of people appointing friends and family members as executors, often simply in an effort to cut down on costs.

Rising house prices may also mean that the amount of money at stake can lead to amateur executors pilfering from the estate for themselves which results in the Court disputes.

Experts recommend choosing one family member and one professional, such as a solicitor or accountant, to carry out the instructions in your Will.

For information on making a Will and appointing executors, please contact the Wills and Probate team at Lawson-West on 0116 212 1000.

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