Unclaimed estates fraud highlights importance of making a Will

A high-profile BBC investigation into inheritance fraud, which has led to a government list of unclaimed estates being removed from public record, highlights the importance of making a will, a Lancashire legal expert has said.

The Bona Vacantia, a government list of around 6,000 unclaimed estates in England and Wales, was previously available for anyone to view on the gov.uk website but was removed last week. 

It follows a BBC investigation which uncovered a criminal gang was using it to commit fraud worth millions of pounds, often by somebody claiming to be a sole heir to a deceased person whose estate details were listed.

While the list’s removal has prompted discussions about potential changes to the probate system, Clare Rogers, associate solicitor at Woodcocks Haworth and Nuttall (WHN) Solicitors, has said this news is also a reminder of the importance of having a professionally made will.

Clare, who is a specialist in wills, probate and trusts, and also head of the firm’s Accrington office, said: “People who have died with no direct family, for example those who are single or widowed or those who had become estranged from relatives, are those whose estates are most likely to be unclaimed.

She added those with a considerable estate were most likely to be targeted by fraud.

“That could include a large amount of money or property – and the easiest way to guard against this type of fraud is having a professionally drafted will,” Clare added.

Clare also highlighted the importance of ensuring a will is kept up to date, particularly if a person’s circumstances change considerably, and said a legal expert was the best option to support people both to draft and update their will.

She said: “A significant change of circumstance could include the birth of a child or grandchild, or if there is a separation such as a divorce. Making sure a will reflects your current circumstances minimises the chance of fraud and ensures your estate is passed on in line with your wishes.” 

The WHN Solicitors wills and probate team has decades of collective experience of high-quality work in all matters relating to Wills and estate administration. In particular, the team has particular expertise in high value estates and Inheritance Tax matters.

Clare Rogers is an associate solicitor based at WHN Solicitors’ Accrington office. Specialising in wills, trusts, powers of attorney, Court of Protection applications, probate and all aspects relating to the administration of estates, Clare’s expertise lies in helping clients ensure their financial, property and other assets are passed on in accordance with their wishes after they die.

If you need help preparing or updating a will, our specialist solicitors are here to help. Please contact Clare on 01254 236221 or by email [email protected].