Recent case highlights need for law reform in forced/predatory marriage

Predatory or forced marriages faced by individuals (usually elderly) whose mental capacity is in doubt or who are vulnerable to undue influence remain an open wound for many families.

As things stand, an unscrupulous individual can engineer a marriage to a vulnerable person, by-passing any possible dispute about a will, meaning the predator gains the entire estate with no legal redress for disappointed beneficiaries or concerned family members.

Shoosmiths has provided invaluable advice and support to Fabian Hamilton MP and Daphne Franks’ Justice for Joan campaign to change the law to end the abuse that is predatory marriage.  Reforming the law so that marriage would not revoke a will would automatically remove the incentive for the abuse, bringing justice and protection for the vulnerable and their families.  A recent case has once again highlighted the urgent need for reform in this area of law.

Read the full article here.