“Beware Low Cost Wills!”

It has recently been reported that a daughter is suing one of the High Street Banks’ as she claims that the “botched” Will that was prepared for her late father resulted in her being deprived of a share in his London home

She is seeking compensation from the Bank and the matter is now going to the High Court.    In 2007 Ebenezer Aregbesola used a Banks Will writing service to create a Will dealing with his various assets including a house in London.    His Will stated that half of the house was to be given to his daughter on his death.  The property was owned jointly by him and his wife.   

As the property was held in joint names, upon his death in 2014, the house automatically went wholly to his wife in contravention of what his Will stated.  This was because in writing the Will in addition the Bank should have severed the joint tenancy.    Having failed to do so the whole of the property passed to his widow.    His daughter did not receive her half share. 

This case highlights the importance of ensuring that proper legal advice is secured when you are thinking about making a Will.    There are many cut price Will writing services available but there is no substitute for seeking advice from a lawyer who is experienced in preparing Wills to ensure that your wishes are fully carried out upon your death.

For more information about RDC’s Will writing service as well as advice on Lasting Powers of Attorney, Grants of Probate and Administration of Estates,  please contact Ian Cormack or Sheila Mackintosh on 01274 735511 or email Ian on IanC@rdcsolicitors.co.uk or Sheila on Sheila@rdcsolicitors.co.uk