Watson Esam | News | The Value of Valuations

A recent High Court hearing has highlighted the importance of obtaining accurate professional property valuations when dealing with the probate of an estate.

Mr John Kershaw was the son of the late Adrienne Kershaw whose estate was valued at £2.9 million.  Mr Kershaw was to inherit two fifths of the estate but has failed in his attempt to remove his sister's as executors for failing to properly value the estate in an attempt to reduce his inheritance.  Mr Justice Neway found that the valuations utilised were made by professionals and there was no reason to doubt them or the proper administration of the estate.

Jonathan Holsgrove of Watson Esam's contentious trusts and probate team agreed with the decision:

"It is vitally important that executors seek professional advice when completing the task of valuing an estate such as Mrs Kershaw's.  Both executors and beneficiaries can then rely on the expertise of those professional valuations to provide them with the reassurance that all beneficiaries are receiving their full entitlement under a will.  This decision supports that proposition and provides useful guidance that the Courts will not readily ignore independent valuations by recognised professionals."

The Sheffield Star has covered the story.

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