Re B [2022] WTLR 409

Wills & Trusts Law Reports | Summer 2022 #187

In 2013, B’s father died intestate in France leaving a French property. Under French law, the property passed to B and his adult sister in equal shares. Under French law, it is necessary for the heir to accept their succession to the French estate. As B was a minor (aged 17), he was not able to do so. If he lived in France the surviving parent would be able to accept the succession on B’s behalf, but because B was habitually resident in England the French court declined jurisdiction.

B’s mother made an application for a specific issue order under s8 of the Children Ac...

Scarfe & anr v Matthews & ors Claim number: HC12C0096

Wills & Trusts Law Reports | November 2012 #124

Bernard Trevor Matthews (testator) died on 25 November 2010 and was survived by the defendants, who were his son, longstanding partner and three adopted children respectively. His estate included a property in France called Villa Bolinha estimated at €15m and property elsewhere estimated at £40m. Although (as he was aware) French law only permitted the testator to leave the second defendant 25% of Villa Bolinha since his children were as of right entitled to 75%, he made a will in France (French will) leaving it to her absolutely. By a letter of wishes, he nevertheless hoped that his chi...