It can be daunting to receive an unexpected call or email claiming you are entitled to an estate. Potential beneficiaries may feel overwhelmed and question the legitimacy of the inheritance. These estates can stem from estranged relationships or family members the beneficiaries never knew they had. In this article, we share a case study from our legal team that demonstrates how we assist the legal sector in engaging with sceptical beneficiaries.
The Case Of Mr. B
Initially, Blanchards was approached by a law firm that faced an obstacle in administrating a UK estate. The Will named Mr. B as a beneficiary, entitling him to inherit an estate belonging to a close friend of his parents. However, the beneficiary was sceptical about the legitimacy of the claim and reported the solicitor to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Despite the confirmation from the SRA and efforts by another tracing agency, the beneficiary refused to engage or provide identification.
Blanchards Approach
Our legal team took on the case and started conducting research. We were able to receive reports by the law firm given by the previous tracing agency which revealed some basic details for the search subject. With this information and utilising our own tracing methods, we were able to confirm the beneficiary’s permanent residency in Malta. We contacted Mr. B through his telephone number, reassuring that this entitlement was authentic.
The Outcome
By speaking to Mr. B directly and explaining the case with supporting documentation and reports while adding a personal touch to our approach. The beneficiary proceeded to agree to engage with the solicitor handling the estate. This enabled the law firm to communicate with the beneficiary and distribute the estate according to the deceased’s wishes.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why a beneficiary or next of kin might be sceptical about inheriting an estate. In this case, the beneficiary took precautionary steps to confirm whether the firm was regulated, though some scepticism remained. Blanchard’s direct and personal approach of speaking with Mr. B, helped establish trust and provided reassurance.
In an industry that is unregulated we have made the efforts to follow the best practice methods and register with various schemes to ensure clients have a peace of mind when approached by Blanchards. If you have a case you need assistance with, please get in touch with us today.
