The Homes à Court case
In 1990, Australia’s first billionaire, Robert Holmes à Court, died suddenly at 53—leaving behind a $2 billion empire and, crucially, no signed will. Despite his business brilliance, he never formalised his wishes, reportedly carrying a draft will in his briefcase for years.
The Takeaway
Don’t leave it until tomorrow, as tomorrow may not come.
- Legal nightmares: His companies ended up in court.
- Family friction: Loved ones faced stress and conflict.
- Loss of control: The government, not Holmes à Court, decided who got what.
The Easy Solution: Make a Will & Sign
A valid will puts you in control, protects your family, and keeps your legacy intact. Even billionaires can get it wrong; don’t make the same mistake. Write your will today and spare your loved ones the heartache.
The Picasso Case, not a Pretty Picture
What followed were six years of legal battles that cost over $30 million and fractured his family. The chaos didn’t end with the court proceedings; decades of uncertainty over copyrights and licensing continued to haunt his legacy.
Dying without a Will does not just risk chaos; it guarantees it. Not a pretty picture.
The Easy Solution: Make a Will
A valid will puts you in control, protects your family, and keeps your legacy intact. Even a genius can get it wrong; don’t make the same mistake. Write your will today and spare your loved ones the heartache.
Guest article by Cuthberts partner: Jodie Gwynn-Jones Harper Jones Law