Modern families come in many forms. Second marriages, stepchildren, cohabiting partners, and adult children from previous relationships are part of everyday life. But when it comes to inheritance, these family dynamics can create legal complications, confusion, and even conflict.

At our firm, we regularly advise clients in blended families who want to do the right thing for everyone they care about, without accidentally leaving someone out or sparking a future dispute. Here’s what you need to know.

Why standard Wills don’t always work for modern families

A typical “mirror Will” (where each partner leaves everything to the other, then to the children) may not be suitable if you:

• Have children from previous relationships

• Have remarried but want to protect your children’s inheritance

• Are unmarried but living together

• Want to provide for stepchildren, but they aren’t legally adopted

• Are worried about future care home fees or remarriage after your death

In these situations, relying on default arrangements or outdated Wills can lead to unintended outcomes, including family members being left out entirely.

Case study: A common dilemma

Take the example of John and Joan, both on their second marriage. John has two children from his first marriage; Joan has one. They own their home together and have some joint savings.

If John dies first and leaves everything to Joan, there’s no guarantee his two children will inherit anything after her death, especially if she remarries or changes her Will.

It’s a scenario we see all too often, and one that can be avoided with the right legal planning.

Solutions that balance fairness and protection

To make sure everyone is considered, we often recommend:

1. Life interest trusts

A Life Interest Trust in your Will allows your partner to benefit from assets during their lifetime (e.g. continue living in the home), while ensuring that your share eventually passes to your chosen beneficiaries, such as your children.

This strikes a balance between looking after your spouse or partner and preserving your legacy for the next generation.

2. Specific gifts and allocations

You can include tailored gifts in your Will, such as savings to stepchildren, personal items to grandchildren, or a share of the estate to children from a previous relationship. This makes your intentions clear and helps avoid future disputes.

3. Advice on joint assets

Did you know that how you own your home, as joint tenants or tenants in common, affects what happens when you pass away?

We can review your property ownership and advise on whether a change is needed to support your wishes.

Planning ahead means peace of mind

When you have a blended family, making a Will isn’t just about dividing up assets, it’s about protecting relationships, avoiding misunderstandings, and giving your loved ones clear direction at a difficult time.

How we can help

We specialise in Wills, trusts and inheritance planning for modern families. We’ll take the time to understand your personal situation and explain your options clearly.

To speak with a member of the team, or to book an appointment, please get in touch.