Businessman’s “secret” daughter challenges will

Ruth Simmonds, the “secret daughter” of an entrepreneur who made a £2m fortune is fighting for a share of his estate.

Ken Jordan died aged 75 and left “every penny” to his new partner, the cousin of his wife, the High Court heard. Lawyers for Ms Simmonds argued there were “real doubts” over Mr Jordan’s mental ability to make a valid will in the months before he died. Judge Edward Murray is noted to have reserved ruling until the New Year. Evening Standard, Page: 11 The Sun, Page: 11

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In 2023 there were 122 contested probate cases, up from 116 cases in 2022, according to the Ministry of Justice Family Court Statistics.

Philip Collins, Partner at Winckworth Sherwood, said that it “isn’t at all surprising” that there has been a rise in contested probate claims. He said: “We know that significant amounts of wealth, often tied up in property, is currently being passed down to younger generations. Inherited wealth is becoming increasingly important and can often […]