The absence of a will or a poorly prepared one can lead to bitter disputes between surviving family members. Six people share stories of conflict and resentment involving wills and inheritances. These stories highlight how money and grief can bring out the worst in people.
Freya’s mother died, and Freya became the executor of her mother’s will. The will divided her mother’s assets equally among her children. However, one sibling stopped speaking to Freya, believing they would become a millionaire.
Freya describes the situation as stressful and upsetting. There were disagreements over practical matters and the value of the house. Her sibling called her a “bully.” Freya feels constantly burdened by the family conflict.
Sally’s father remarried after her mother died. When he became ill, his new wife was constantly by his side. Sally and her siblings suspect changes were made to the will before their father’s death.
Their father tried to sell the family home to ensure its proceeds would go to his children. However, he passed away before the sale. This left half the house legally to his new wife, who had never lived there.
Sally’s resentment remains as her father’s new wife’s children stand to inherit what Sally believes should belong to her and her siblings. Sally has taken steps to prevent a similar situation for her own children. Caroline witnessed family disputes over her aunt’s will.
The will divided property and money among nieces and nephews. Despite the aunt’s fair intentions, the will was contested.
Family divisions over inheritance
This led to years of familial tension and significant legal expenses. Caroline emphasizes the need for clear conversations about wills and inheritance before someone passes away to prevent such conflicts. Doreen experienced a difficult situation when her ex-husband died without a will.
He had custody of the family farm. Doreen and their young children were excluded from the wake. The ex-husband’s family stripped the farm of valuables.
Without a will, Doreen and her children struggle to access his personal belongings and prove his assets. The situation is complicated by the involvement of solicitors. Carla returned home to care for her ailing mother, giving up her job abroad.
After her mother’s death, a sibling who had lived abroad and received one of their mother’s houses returned to demand more from the will. Carla feels frustrated and believes the division of assets was unfair. This led to no further communication with the sibling.
Maeve’s mother left a will and set up a trust fund for her daughters. Maeve and her sister misused the funds initially provided by the trust, not understanding its limitations. Additionally, her mother specified that boyfriends were not allowed to move into the house.
When Maeve became pregnant, she had to move out to prevent her child from acquiring rights to the property. She describes that time as chaotic but has since purchased her own home. Solicitor Elaine Byrne adds that the probate practice involves both law and psychology.
She emphasizes the importance of parents including all their children in their will. This helps avoid feelings of being unloved, which can worsen family tensions.