Dearest Gentle Reader,
As many of us settle in for the newest season of Bridgerton, it’s hard not to get drawn into the glamour, romance and—of course—the family drama. But beyond the beautiful costumes and whispered scandals, the show also highlights something surprisingly relevant today: what can happen when estate planning goes wrong.
While we’re fortunate to live in a world with far more flexibility than the Regency era, modern families are also far more complex. That makes clear and thoughtful planning more important than ever. If Bridgerton has left you wondering how these issues work in real life, this author has some helpful points to consider.
Why making a will still matters
In Bridgerton, estates often pass automatically to the eldest son, with little room for personal preference. Thankfully, English law today gives you much more control—but only if you have a valid Will.
Without one, the intestacy rules decide who inherits, and they don’t always reflect modern families. For example, unmarried partners and stepchildren don’t automatically receive anything.
A well-drafted will helps make sure:
- the right people receive the right assets
- children and vulnerable family members are properly supported
- tax planning is considered early
- the risk of future disagreements is reduced
Supporting blended and changing families
Many families today look very different from those in the Regency period. Second marriages, stepchildren, cohabiting couples and multi‑generational households are all common.
Planning tools that can help include:
- life interest trusts
- discretionary trusts
- clear instructions about property and financial provision
Protecting unmarried partners
One of the surprising similarities with Bridgerton is the position of unmarried partners: under English law, cohabiting partners still do not automatically inherit anything, no matter how long they have been together.
If you want your partner to be looked after, this must be set out in your Will.
Providing for children and vulnerable loved ones
If you have young children, adult dependents or relatives with additional needs, planning ahead ensures they’ll be supported in the way you intend.
This might involve:
- appointing guardians
- using trusts
- writingletters of wishes
- specialist trusts for vulnerable beneficiaries
Reducing the risk of disputes
Disputes over estates are becoming more common. To help avoid this, it’s worth:
- updating your will after any major life change
- reviewing asset ownership
- choosing executors and trustees carefully
- communicating your wishes
A modern approach to legacy
Bridgerton may romanticise the past, but it also reminds us how much easier it is today to shape our own legacy. A thoughtful estate plan reflects your priorities and gives your family clarity when they need it most.
For more information, please get in touch with our English wills and estate planning lawyers.
Contributor
Associate
