Two brothers are in a legal dispute over the estate of their late mother, reports the Derby Telegraph.
Agnes Bird had married into the Bird family, which owns the Birds Bakery chain, and left behind a substantial estate when she died in 2017.
She was estranged from one of her sons, Rupert, but nonetheless provided regular financial support to him and his family. The total amount of support provided over the past ten years is thought to amount to over £600,000. After his mother’s death, Rupert and his family are reportedly dependent on state benefits as their only form of income.
Mrs Bird was much closer to her other son, Andrew, who works as a financial adviser and has been described as her ‘golden child’.
In her will, Mrs Bird left the bulk of her estate to Andrew, and only £40,000 to Rupert.
Rupert has now brought a claim against his mother’s estate for £250,000 to enable his family to buy a house. He claims that as his mother had taken on the responsibility for financially supporting his family during her lifetime, he had become dependent on her and therefore his mother should have been obliged to leave him a fair share of her estate.
Andrew has contested this claim, saying that his mother had wished for Rupert to receive £40,000 and therefore that is all he is entitled to. He also argued that Rupert had already received a significant ‘inheritance’ in the form of the financial support provided by his mother.
The decision of the High Court judge hearing the case is expected at a later date.
Contact our Contentious Trusts and Probate Lawyers London
At Selachii, we understand how upsetting and challenging dealing with trusts or probate matters can be, especially when you are grieving for a loved one. Our calm, professional and friendly approach will take some of the worry and stress from you so you can concentrate on looking after yourself and your family. Contact us today to find out how we can help you.
