Parents given wills and probate advice

People have been issued with some helpful wills and probate advice by a legal expert to avoid disputes by a will beneficiary after their death.

Howard Black, a lawyer based in Canada, told Thestar.com that many families end up arguing over wills and probate and it is a common misconception that only wealthy estates cause disagreements.

Mr Black said: "You can easily have these disputes in estates of very modest value."

To avoid this, the legal expert recommended that parents consider if it is a good idea to name a child the executor of an estate because doing so could be "a mistake", as a person's offspring could fight over many decisions relating to their will.

Another option may be to appoint an independent person who can step in if any disputes arise, Mr Black advised.

He also said that it can be a good idea for any surprise decisions regarding making a will to be discussed with family members before a person's demise to avoid any shocks.

In addition, US-based legal professional Mike Walters said that wills and probate matters should be discussed by a couple before they get married.

Published by Hannah Carr