Receiving an unexpected call or email informing you of an entitlement to an estate can be unsettling. Understandably, potential beneficiaries may feel overwhelmed and question the legitimacy of such claims. In many cases, estates arise from estranged relationships or from individuals the beneficiary may not even recall. In this article, we share a case study from our legal team that highlights how we work on hand with the legal sector in engaging with sceptical beneficiaries.
The Case of Mr B
Blanchards was instructed by a law firm encountering difficulties in administering a UK estate. The Will named Mr B as a beneficiary, entitling him to inherit from the estate of a close friend of his parents. However, Mr B was highly sceptical of the claim and reported the solicitor to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Despite confirmation from the SRA and previous attempts by another tracing agency, Mr B declined to engage further or provide identification.
Blanchards’ Approach
Our legal team accepted the instruction and began a detailed investigation. We reviewed the reports provided by the law firm from the previous tracing agency, which contained limited background information on the beneficiary. Using this information alongside our own tracing methodologies, we were able to establish that Mr B was permanently residing in Malta.
We successfully contacted Mr B via telephone, where our team reassured him of the legitimacy of the inheritance and explained the process in a clear and transparent manner.
The Outcome
By speaking with Mr B directly, providing supporting documentation, and taking a personalised approach, we were able to build trust and alleviate his concerns. As a result, Mr B agreed to engage with the solicitor handling the estate, enabling the law firm to proceed with the administration and distribute the estate in accordance with the deceased’s wishes.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why beneficiaries or next of kin may be sceptical when informed of an inheritance. In this case, the beneficiary took sensible precautionary steps to verify the firm’s regulatory status, although concerns initially remained. Blanchards’ direct and personal approach proved instrumental in establishing trust and providing reassurance.
While the industry itself is unregulated, Blanchards is committed to best-practice standards and is registered with multiple professional schemes to give clients confidence and peace of mind. If you require assistance with a similar case, please contact us today.
This article was submitted by Blanchards Inheritance 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.
