A New Low – Fraudsters claiming deceased estates

The article focused on the bona vacantia process where an individual dies without a Will and no known family members. Before the Crown or the Duchies of Lancaster or Cornwall can claim the Estate, the Government Legal Service publishes details of said “Unclaimed Estates” which allows genealogist firms the opportunity to trace distant relations. You may have seen this process in action in the much-loved BBC series “Heir Hunters”.

Why Having a Properly Executed Will Matters—Now More Than Ever

Prevents Probate Fraud

Without a Will, your estate could become a prime target. Fraudsters may forge signatures, manipulate documents, or assert baseless claims to inherit your assets. A properly drafted and witnessed Will closes these loopholes.

Ensures Your Wishes Are Respected

Whether it is who inherits your home, your financial assets, or even personal possessions, a Will lets you specify how your estate is distributed. Without it, assets may go to distant relatives or be divided in ways that do not reflect your desires.

Reduces Conflict & Legal Cost

Estate disputes can cause family rifts, lengthy legal battles, and emotional distress. A clear will helps avoid confusion, minimises challenges, and can reduce the risk of contested probate proceedings.

Streamlines Administration

A Will provides executors with clear instructions. This can shorten probate time, reduce fees, and expedite asset distribution.

Recommended Actions for Safeguarding Your Estate

1. Create a professionally drafted will — Use Thackray Williams to ensure legal validity of your Will and that it includes all necessary clauses.
2. Keep your Will secure — Store it in a protected location. If stored with Thackray Williams we will register your Will with the UK National Will Register.
3. Review and update your will regularly — Major life changes (marriage, divorce, childbirth, significant asset acquisitions) should trigger a review.
4. Appoint trusted executors — Choose individuals who are reliable and aware of their role, and ensure they understand where the Will is kept.
5. Return original wills to Probate Registry promptly after death — This reduces opportunities for forgery or disputes.

In Summary

As a consequence of the BBC’s article the Bona Vacantia division of the Government Legal Service have removed the list of Unclaimed Estates from its website.

The BBC’s investigation is a stark reminder: increased probate fraud = increased risk to those without proper estate planning. A professionally prepared and securely stored will is more than just a legal document—it is your safeguard against fraud and family uncertainty.

By taking the right steps—getting a valid will, keeping it safe, reviewing it regularly, and appointing trustworthy executors—you significantly strengthen your estate’s integrity and protect your legacy.

How fake-will fraudsters steal millions from the dead - BBC News

Temporary removal of the unclaimed Estates list - GOV.UK

Please feel free to contact our Private Client team on 020 8290 0440 to discuss your Will.