Expert: Use a professional to reduce the chance of a disputed will

Using a professional when making a will is one of the best ways to reduce the chances of it being disputed after the testator's death, an expert has claimed.

Keith Johnston, director of philanthropy at the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, has highlighted the fact that it is important to guard against the risk of a dispute in order to ensure the estate is administered according to the deceased's wishes.

He said that the person making a will can minimise these risks by asking all of the appropriate questions and explaining – in full – the potential consequences of each course of action.

The tax issues that making certain provisions can entail should also be explored, he claimed, and it is necessary for the professional to make detailed notes of both the instructions taken and the advice given.

Mr Johnston explained: "If at a later date relatives wish to challenge a gift to a charity, it can easily be resolved by showing that everything was explained fully at the time of making the will."

Earlier this month, the Amidale Express highlighted the importance of seeking professional help when making a will, as this can reduce the chances of something going wrong and a provision or bequest being struck out by a court.

Published by Tessa Jones