In recent years there has been a growing number of conflicts among heirs over inheritances. There are all sorts of reasons why heirs would fight over an estate. This article provides advice on some of the ways potential disputes between heirs can either be avoided or reduced. One of the most important things that this article stresses is communication. Oftentimes families will fight over an estate because of a failure to communicate. This article discusses many other steps and techniques that can be used to reduce the likelihood of their being a costly probate battle that could split a family apart. There could be certain circumstances when a person might intend to distribute assets unequally and they will need to explain the reasons to their loved ones. It is also a good idea to make a plan for distributing personal possessions that have a sentimental value attached to them.
See Eleanor Laise, Head Off Squabbles Among Your Heirs, Kiplinger, November 17, 2015.
Special thanks to Jim Hillhouse for bringing this article to my attention.
