p. 11. Introduction
- Brian SloanBrian SloanCollege Lecturer in Law, Robinson College, University of Cambridge
Abstract
This introductory chapter provides an overview of the book’s main themes. This book concerns three broad questions on the posthumous distribution of property in England and Wales: What should happen if a person has not fully expressed valid wishes as to the fate of his or her property (largely the law of intestacy)? What form should such wishes be required to take (largely but not exclusively the law of wills)? And, when may those wishes (or ‘testamentary freedom’) be overridden to benefit those who might have a legitimate claim to a (larger) share of the estate (the law of family provision)? The remainder of the chapter discusses the purposes of succession law and succession in its social context.
