Long-Running BBC Radio Soap Puts Will Disputes In Spotlight

An ongoing storyline in long-running BBC Radio 4 soap The Archers has put a spotlight on the difficulties caused when the wishes contained in a person’s will do not meet the expectations of their loved ones.

In the popular radio series, much attention has been focused on the will of Jack Wooley, who recently passed away after a long illness.

He had been happily married to his second wife Peggy, who has two daughters who lived locally and were closed to Jack. He also had a daughter from his previous marriage, Hazel, who lived in London and did not have a close relationship with him.

However, it was revealed at the reading of his will that the majority of his estate would be left to Hazel, including several properties and investments.

Listeners have been shocked to subsequently hear how Hazel is now using her authority to disrupt the day-to-day work at the properties and businesses across Ambridge that her father has passed to her.

According to the BBC, the storyline has become a major talking point among listeners with some revealing concerns that the plot development will see Hazel ‘decimate the village with her money grasping’.

Expert Opinion

Listeners are in uproar due to the fictional goings-on in Ambridge, but for a huge number of people such problems are very much fact. <br/> <br/>"We are contacted everyday by people who are concerned in relation the wishes outlined in a loved one’s will, with them often being frustrated and angry that they have not been given the inheritance they deserve. <br/> <br/>"Dependent on the circumstances, people do not just have to simply just grin and bear the terms of a will and they often have a chance to launch a legal challenge in relation to such issues, in order to get the justice they deserve. <br/> <br/>"However, it must be remembered that going to court in relation to such issues can be time-consuming, costly and also emotionally draining, often deepening fractures in relationships between family and friends. <br/> <br/>"Because of this, we would always urge those who are preparing a will to ensure they keep such documents up-to-date and also involve their loved ones in discussions about the decisions they have made and why. <br/> <br/>"Hopefully, such steps will mitigate the risks of conflicts emerging in relation to a will and also ensure that people fully understand and accepting the thought process which has gone into drafting the document. People should also always seek professional guidance when drafting a will too, to ensure that it is covers all key aspects and accurately reflects their wishes." Paula Myers - Partner