Series Highlights Estate Issues

Will dispute experts at Irwin Mitchell have revealed how they are benefitting from the ‘Gerry Robinson Factor’, as the trouble-shooter’s new BBC documentary has raised interest in the disputes that can emerge after the death of a loved one.

Can’t Take It With You has put the issue of estates and inheritances back into the spotlight, with the programme helping families decide how best to split inheritances in particularly complex cases.

Since the series began, Irwin Mitchell's wills trusts and estate dispute team have seen a significant rise in enquiries, with people increasingly challenging gifts to charities and the split of assets between offspring and new partners.

Louise Sykes, head of the team, said: “Gerry Robinson’s programme is doing a great job in highlighting the grey areas that can emerge if people do not plan for what will happen after their death.

“We are increasingly seeing cases in which costly and damaging disputes emerge because people have failed to take the time to think carefully about the future and amend their will accordingly.

“The complexity of modern family arrangements arguably plays a major part, as those who choose to marry for a second time may have to choose what they leave to new partners, as well as where their children’s inheritance fits into the whole scenario.

“In addition, clarity is often key when it comes to asking in a will for money to be left to a charity. Recent high-profile cases in the press have highlighted what can happen if this is not the case.

“Ultimately, Can’t Take It With You has shown the hard facts of the issue in the right manner – people who fail to take the right measures in handling what they will leave behind after death are risking their loved ones much heartache in the future.”

If you are involved in a will dispute or need further information about contesting a will, please visit our Will, Trust & Estate Disputes section