How to avoid inheritance disputes in Victoria

In-fighting in families over money and property is unfortunately common. Grief can impair our thinking, and greed can make us act in a way that isn’t very kind. In the end, having a good plan in place for your own death is the only way to avoid it, though this doesn’t guarantee anything. A rock-solid plan can be contested by anyone with an interest, delaying settlement and prolonging the conflict.

     Common feelings contributing to disputes include differing perceptions:

  • Distribution of assets not being considered fair
  • Sentimental items being distributed problematically – this can be personal belongings like letters, photographs, or other items
  • What the person ‘would have wanted’ – conflicting views
  • How property is used and by whom
  • Unethical or unfair actions by an executor

     Avoiding a family feud
Family feuds can be avoided by following a few simple steps, and modern technology (the humble video) can go a long way clearing up any confusion.

  1. Make sure your will is up-to-date (check it every few years, and when anything changes like a birth, death, divorce)
  2. Make sure your will is crystal clear
  3. Talk to your family about what is to go where well before you die
  4. Write to the executor and explain yourself
  5. Identify potential areas that could become an issue and discuss these
  6. Get good legal advice – if you don’t have a lawyer, call Vanessa Ash

Get solid legal advice. Contact Vanessa Ash. 

You might also need:

  1. Vanessa Ash fights for your freedom – criminal and civil law in Victoria
  2. The legal age a child can inherit in Victoria
  3. De facto couples and death or separation, and how that affects stepchildren – Victoria
  4. Divorce settlements – Victoria
  5. LGBTQ? Be perfectly clear with your loved ones in Victoria
  6. Managing disputes between an executor and beneficiary of a will in Victoria
  7. How inheritance in a property settlement is treated in Family Court in Victoria