DAVID Carson, Head of Estates and Trusts at RJS Solicitors, has emphasised the importance of getting sound advice before anyone bequeaths considerable gifts to young relatives.

The topic was highlighted by an article in the Financial Times where 17-year-old twins and their 14-year-old sister inherited £300,000 each from their great-grandmother.

Their parents broached a difficult subject by asking what would happen to the inheritance if one of the children should pass away unexpectedly – and also asked if their children could make Wills.

David said: “You have to be 18 to make a legally valid Will and if one of the children did die, their inheritance would automatically go to their parents.

“The point not considered in the FT article was that great-grandma should have left a contingent gift rather than an absolute gift. With a contingent gift, she could have specified what would happen in such circumstances.

“We are only talking about a small percentage of people, but anyone who wants to leave a considerable gift to their younger relations should definitely seek sound advice to cover all options and possible outcomes.”

For further information, contact David Carson – Tel: (01782) 646320 – Email: davidcarson@rjssolicitors.com