Mother defeats her own son in the High Court over £6 million estate

Marion Horsford defeated her son, Peter Horsford over a £6 million country estate to ensure she received her share.

Peter Horsford had worked on the family farm since he was a schoolboy and purportedly sacrificed his childhood to labour on the family farm. He also alleged it had been promised that the 540-acre estate would “all be his one day.”

Mrs Horsford split from her husband in 2011 and retired from the family farming partnership and requested £2.52 million from her son for her share along with £23,000.00 in past profits. Mr Horsford who had been diagnosed with dementia was unable to clarify who was due the share of the estate.

Peter Horsford’s refusal to pay his mother was on the basis that he had received a lifetime of assurances and argued if he had to pay her, he would need to sell the farm.

Mrs Horsford however argued that she wanted fairness for her three children and that her son had already benefited from his own hard work on the farm and his parents generosity over the years.

The matter went before the High Court and Judge Rosen ruled in favour of Mrs Horsford. Judge Rosen stated that although Mrs Horsford had said previously she might leave him her share she had not promised this and therefore was entitled to the share she requested.

In delivering the judgment, Judge Rosen believed there was a clear distinction between a promise and statements of intent and referenced to Mrs Horsford’s diary wherein which she made references to her “darling daughters.”

Peter Horsford however believed it was his right to inherit the whole estate and grew up on the same assurances.

He also alleged that in order to pay his mother the £2.52 million the farm may need to be sold.

Disputes such as this can strain relationships and drive families apart. If you require legal advice or assistance in disputes surrounding Inheritance Disputes and Promissory Estoppel, then please do not hesitate to contact a member of the Dispute Resolution Team here at Franklins either on 01604 828282/01908 660966 or at litigation@franklins-sols.co.uk.