Hives v Machin [2017] WTLR 983

Wills & Trusts Law Reports | Autumn 2017 #169

This claim concerned the proper construction of the will of Mrs Bastubbe (‘the Testatrix’). The Testatrix had three sons, Christopher, Eric (the Claimant’s father) and Peter (the Defendant). The Testatrix made her last will in 2003 at a time when all three of her sons were living. The Defendant had one son and one daughter, and the Claimant was Eric’s only daughter. The deceased would have been aware in 2003 that Eric had a chest complaint that caused him breathing difficulties and that Christopher was suffering from illness relating to drug addiction. Christopher in fact predeceased the...