In recent years, there has been growing public concern around what is known as predatory marriage. It is a deeply troubling issue that exposes how easily vulnerable individuals can be exploited under current UK law.
A predatory marriage occurs when one person deliberately takes advantage of another’s diminished mental capacity or understanding in order to marry them. Often, this is done with the intention of gaining control over their estate.
What makes this particularly concerning is that a marriage automatically revokes any existing Will. This means that even if someone has previously made careful plans for their estate, those wishes are cancelled upon marriage, and their assets will typically pass to their new spouse under intestacy rules.
Why predatory marriage is a growing concern
The law surrounding marriage and capacity has not kept pace with modern safeguarding awareness. There is currently no consistent national policy requiring registrars to check mental capacity before a marriage takes place. As a result, individuals who are elderly, isolated, or living with dementia are at particular risk.
Families often only discover what has happened after it is too late, when they find that their loved one’s Will has been invalidated and their estate has passed to someone they barely knew. These cases are not just legal tragedies; they are human ones.
Recognising the warning signs
Predatory marriages can be difficult to detect, but there are often warning signs, including:
- A sudden, secretive relationship involving a vulnerable or elderly person.
- A new partner showing undue influence or discouraging family contact.
- Unexpected changes to financial arrangements or personal documents.
- Attempts to isolate the individual from their usual support network.
If you suspect that someone you care about may be at risk, it is important to seek professional advice. Speaking to an experienced estate planner like us can help you explore protective steps such as Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) or early estate planning.
The importance of early estate planning
While predatory marriage is a complex safeguarding issue, proactive estate planning remains one of the most effective defences. Ensuring that Wills, LPAs, and other legal documents are in place before capacity is lost can help protect both assets and intentions.
At AHJ Wills & Estates, we believe that planning ahead is about far more than paperwork. It is about peace of mind, dignity, and safeguarding your wishes. Our team regularly works with families to help them understand how best to protect vulnerable relatives from financial and emotional harm.
What needs to change
Many professionals in the estate planning community have called for reform, urging the government to introduce stronger checks on capacity before marriage and clearer procedures for reporting concerns. Until those changes are made, awareness and early action remain our best protection.
Predatory marriage is not just a legal issue; it is a moral one. Every case highlights why it is vital to stay informed, stay connected, and act early to protect those who may not be able to protect themselves.
Talk to us about protecting your family
If you are concerned about how best to protect a loved one or would like to review your Will or Lasting Power of Attorney, speak to AHJ Wills & Estates today.
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