Bequest In A Will

[Coppit]

What is the minimum amount that can be specified as a bequest in a Will? I want to recognise somebody who has been adequately provided for in their lifetime while at the same time not giving the impression that they have been overlooked or cut out.
I believe that 'cut him off with a shilling' did not always convey an expression of displeasure. but that provision had already been made.

Incidentally, what happened to the contemptuous farthing damages? I can't recall reading in recent years of any such small sum being awarded.

[Jackdaw33]

Simply because farthings no longer exist.

[Barmaid]

There is no minimum amount. You could put something like "I leave £100 to AB as a small token of my thanks/respect blah blah and record that I have already made substantial provision for him during his lifetime".

However, this will not prevent AB making a claim for reasonable financial provision under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.

[Buenchico]

You can leave any amount (large or small) that you choose.

Contemptuous damages tend not to be awarded very often these days simply because people are better advised before they take a case to court. However some people still end up with just £1 in damages, together with a £1m legal bill ;-)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/2515889.stm