Sibling Strife

Although siblings can be our closest family members, they can also be our biggest rivals—especially when it comes to litigation over family property or money. 

In disputes concerning wills or trusts sibling rivalry often emerges.  Siblings of all ages, economic levels, and professional statures have a tendency to fight for control and become stubborn when legal and family issues collide.  Many conflicts begin when a parent treats their children unequally in a will or trust.  It is very difficult for any child to accept unfair treatment, and the emotions that surface in these circumstances can fuel litigation. 

When devising estate plans, parents should consider sibling dynamics and consider both the emotional and financial consequences of treating children differently.  Well-drafted estate plans can greatly reduce the types of legal claims a disgruntled child can make. 

See Patricia Davidson, Blood Feuds, Private Wealth, March 10, 2015.

Special thanks to Jim Hillhouse (Professional Legal Marketing (PLM, Inc.)) for bringing this article to my attention.