Liam Payne’s Death Without A Will A “Powerful Reminder” To Plan Ahead

Former One Direction singer Liam Payne’s death without a will serves as a powerful reminder to plan ahead to ensure loved ones are provided for, according to a solicitor specialising in estate planning with leading South East law firm Furley Page.

The untimely death of Liam Payne at just 31 in Argentina on 16 October 2024 shocked the world, but in addition to the emotional response, his passing has drawn attention to a serious legal issue as he died intestate (i.e. without leaving a valid will).

As such, his estate, announced this week to be worth £24 million, will be dealt with under the rules of intestacy in England and Wales, which provide that the entire estate passes to the deceased’s children where the deceased did not have a spouse or civil partner.

Liam is survived by his young son, Bear, from his previous relationship with Cheryl Tweedy. At the time of his death, he was in a relationship with Kate Cassidy, whom he was reportedly supporting financially, and among his papers was a note in which he said he planned to marry her in the next two years.

Kathryn Tunbridge, a solicitor in Furley Page’s Private Client team based in Whitstable, Kent, said: “Unfortunately, such a note carries no legal standing in the eyes of the law and, as an unmarried partner, Ms Cassidy has no automatic entitlement to inherit anything, regardless of how long they were together or whether he supported her financially.

“While Ms Cassidy could potentially bring a successful claim against Mr Payne’s estate, bringing such a claim requires evidence and is often emotionally and financially draining, and it is understood she does not currently intend to bring a claim.

“If a couple is married, under intestacy rules a surviving spouse is entitled to the first £322,000 of the estate, all of the deceased’s personal belongings and half of the remaining estate (with the other half going to any surviving children). In addition, wills can be made in contemplation of marriage.

“If Mr Payne had made a will referencing his intention to marry Ms Cassidy, it could have remained valid even after the wedding and allowed him to provide for her, despite not being married at the time of his death.

“Liam Payne’s death is a tragedy, but it also serves as a powerful reminder of how important it is to plan ahead, particularly for unmarried couples. Without a will, even deeply held intentions can go unfulfilled, and those closest to you may be left with nothing.

“If you’re in a serious relationship, especially if you’re not married or in a civil partnership, it’s essential to understand the law and take steps to make your wishes legally binding.”

For advice about making a will, please contact Solicitor, Kathryn Tunbridge on 01227 274241 or email [email protected]

For more information about Furley Page please visit www.furleypage.co.uk. You can also follow the firm on LinkedIn and Facebook.