Who would want strangers deciding where everything you’ve built ends up?
I recently dealt with a case that’s stayed in my mind.
A gentleman passed away with no Will, no partner, no children. He was an only child of only children. His close friends—those who truly knew him—asked me to help trace family members to inherit his estate.
Despite every effort, no relatives could be found.
Legally, the estate must now pass to the Crown as bona vacantia.
His friends, who had been his chosen family in life, will receive nothing.
It’s a sobering reminder from my work in private client law: when no will exists, the law writes one for you—and often, it writes a very different story than you would have chosen.
And sadly, he’s far from alone. There are currently over 9,000 unclaimed estates in the UK, with assets sitting in limbo instead of reaching loved ones or friends.
If you’ve ever said:
⚖️ “I don’t have much”
⚖️ “It’s obvious who I’d want to benefit”
⚖️ “I’ll get to it eventually”
Please know that clarity today spares heartbreak tomorrow!
Writing a will isn’t just about wealth, it’s about leaving a legacy that reflects your wishes.
If you haven’t made a will, or it’s been a while since you reviewed it, now might be the time. Wills should be revisited every few years—or sooner if your circumstances change. It’s one of the kindest, clearest gifts you can leave behind.
By Chrstina Peck
