Each year, we pause to look back on some of the most notable and interesting cases we have worked on. Throughout 2025, Blanchards took part in several interviews, appeared in The Times newspaper, and welcomed new colleagues as our team continued to grow. Despite many years in the industry, we continue to be surprised by the cases we handle and challenges we navigate.
Navigating change across the probate sector
In July, the probate industry faced an unexpected disruption when the Bona Vacantia list was temporarily withdrawn following fraudulent claims. With no warning, the removal came as a shock across the sector. Throughout this period, Blanchards continued to support local authorities and the public sector by tracing next of kin for unclaimed estates. We hope the list will be reinstated in 2026 with a sustainable long-term solution in place.
When research reveals unexpected histories
One particularly compelling case this year involved tracing a relative of a well-known UK serial killer. The matter began as an investigation into a public health funeral for a care home resident believed to have no surviving relatives. As our research progressed and the family tree was developed, an unexpected connection to the notorious individual was uncovered. This discovery added complexity to identifying further beneficiaries and highlighted the sensitivities involved when contacting relatives who may be unaware of or distanced from their family history. It demonstrates the careful approach required when difficult pasts resurface.
A life less ordinary
Blanchards was instructed by a local council to locate next of kin named in a Will. Initial enquiries involved speaking with neighbours to establish potential family or social connections. These discussions revealed surprising insights into the deceased’s private life, including a close friendship with the Queen and a keen interest in shooting activities. Upon accessing the property, these details were confirmed by photographs found within the home. The estate also comprised valuable assets, including fine jewellery and artwork.
Inside probate properties
We regularly assist with the clearance and valuation of estate properties, each revealing its own unique story. In one case, a garage housed a hoarded collection of 30 bicycles. In another, the deceased had accumulated an extensive collection of cricket memorabilia, ranging from books and postcards to caps. Given its size and significance, the beneficiaries elected to donate the collection to a museum for public display.
Tracing families across borders
Blanchards offers both nationwide and international genealogical services to resolve complex inheritance matters involving estranged families or overseas connections. In one such case, we were asked to trace the next of kin of Mr Smith, who passed away in Portugal with minimal information available. By piecing together historical records, liaising with funeral directors, and tracing relatives in the United States, we discovered that Mr Smith had lived under multiple names after separating from his spouse. As the couple had never divorced, the spouse was located and confirmed as the lawful next of kin.
Conclusion
As we move into 2026, we celebrate another year of progress and success. The year ahead also marks the 15th anniversary of Blanchards Inheritance Ltd, which has grown into a nationwide and international heir-hunting and probate research firm. We wish you a Happy New Year and look forward to continuing our work reconnecting families with their rightful inheritances and resolving cases worldwide.
This article was submitted by Blanchards as part of an advertising agreement with Today’s Wills and Probate. The views expressed in this article are those of the submitter and not those of Today’s Wills and Probate.
