21/11/2019
PREDATORY MARRIAGES are on the RISE
Summary of the excellent article by Jenny van Deursen Nov 2019
Predatory marriages are where a widower or widow is lonely, possibly suffering from dementia or similar illness is coerced into a marriage for financial gain.
The marriage is often “secret” with family members and friends unaware that it has taken place. The widow may not fully understand the implications.
Under English Law marriage overrides any will previously written.
When the vulnerable person dies their assets plus potentially all or most of their previous spouse’s assets pass to the new predatory spouse.
We must be vigilant with elderly and/or lonely friends, neighbours, family and work colleagues. Age is not a barrier; a lonely spouse can be in their 40’s or 80’s and be equally vulnerable.
At EWT we take the time to ensure that each person has a valid will in place and that no undue influence has occurred.
For full article https://www.todayswillsandprobate.co.uk/main-news/predatory-marriages-on-the-rise/