Will

[2sp_]

I was executor for my Dad's will (he died nearly 5 years ago). The will was very straight forward, everything went to my Mum apart from a stamp collection that he left to my (estranged) brother.

At the time, I told my brother the stamp collection was his and even took him into my Dad's office (in my parent's house) and pointed to it. I told him it was his and to take it away. (This was in more friendly times!)

Anyway, he still hasn't taken the collection and I'm concerned that he may claim that I withheld his inheritance. Is this possible? The collection isn't worth any real money.

[Barmaid]

He can claim it if he wants. Best thing to do is write him a formal letter stating that you are holding his bequest for him and he needs to either a) pick it up or b) disclaim it.

I don't see there is any claim against you in these circumstances.

[2sp_]

Thank you, BM. It's been playing on my mind lately.

I would never deny him the collection, it is his after all.

I'll get my Solicitor to write to him - we have no contact at all now.

[mazie]

That's a shame 2sp. I hope you sort it out. xx

[woofgang]

can you say something like "if I haven't heard from you by (date) I will assume that you are disclaiming the bequest and dispose of it."?

[tonywiltshire]

Yes you could give a reasonable date by which it must be collected woofgang but unless the collection occupies space you wish to use for something else I would follow the advice given by Barmaid.

[woofgang]

Tony I was just thinking of getting closure and moving on. DH and I were in similar circs with regard to an estranged relative and it can weigh on your mind.

[tonywiltshire]

Woofgang, wills do seem to bring out the best and worst in families I have seen several cases where one side of a family will have nothing to do with another side for the rest of their lives due to perceived wrong doing, fault or insult. I am sure you are right and better to just move on.

[2sp_]

Thanks everyone for your answers.

I didn't fall out with him over the will, it was more to do with him being a lying, cheating, nasty snake. :-)

[tonywiltshire]

Very delicately put 2sp.