Freddie Mercury: A legacy that lives on

On my recent commute home, I listened with interest to a radio discussion, following the news that Mary Austin is to auction a collection of items which once belonged to Freddie Mercury, lead singer of Queen.   Mary Austin was Freddie’s former girlfriend and lifelong friend.

What was in Freddie’s Will

The vast collection is reported to include original handwritten lyrics to some of Queen’s most iconic songs, a selection of Freddie’s memorable stage costumes and famous works of art.  Prior to auction, the collection will be exhibited at Sotheby’s, London, later this year.

Since Freddie’s passing in 1991, the contents of his Will has been widely reported.  This has been the case in recent media coverage, as to the gifts (known as legacies) left to Mary in Freddie’s Will.  Those gifts included the contents of Freddie’s former home in Kensington, London (known as Garden Lodge) and the property itself.

What happens to a Will after someone passes away

In England and Wales, a Will is classed as a “private document” until a Grant of Probate to the Will has issued.  A Grant of Probate is a legal document which confirms the authority of the Executors named in the Will.  Once “Probate has issued” the Will becomes a “public document”, which enables anyone to apply for a copy via the Probate Registry. There are certain exceptions, such as a Will made by a Senior Royal, where convention dictates that the Will is sealed.

 Why a Will is important

This  latest media coverage reminded be of the famous Queen song “Who Wants to Live Forever”.  Although Freddie sadly passed away over 30 years ago at the age of 45, his legacy still lives on in his music and in the memories held by the collection of items due to be auctioned later this year.

Although very few of us will amass a unique collection quite like Freddie’s, many of us have items that are precious to us in their own unique way.  By including a set of specific instructions in your Will, you too can ensure your personal items are gifted to your loved ones in accordance with your wishes.

How we can help with a Will

At Thatcher + Hallam LLP we pride ourselves on ensuring that our fixed fee Will service is tailored to you. Meeting with you to guide you through the decisions process, in order to prepare and complete your Will to meet your specific wishes.

We also have an experienced team of expert lawyers that specialise in advising our clients on contested Wills, trusts and inheritance claims.

For further information please contact our Wills, Probate & Tax Planning Team on 01761 414 646 or enquiries@th-law.co.uk