Judge HHJ Leslie Blohm KC struck down the only will signed by Michael Gwilliam, a Gloucestershire farmer who died in February 2022. The court ruled that Gwilliam lacked the mental capacity to make the document because he suffered from late-onset schizophrenia and fixed delusions. He believed his four daughters were conspiring to have him institutionalised and steal his property.
But the evidence told a different story. Medical records and police reports showed Gwilliam’s behaviour deteriorated sharply after 2013. He spent nights outdoors, brandishing an air rifle, convinced neighbours were harassing him. In February 2014, doctors detained him under Section 2 of the Mental Health Act. His daughters sought this intervention out of concern for his safety, not greed.
On December 3, 2014, Gwilliam signed a will that severed ties with his children. He left 75% of his residuary estate to his sister, companion, and nephews. His four daughters collectively received the remaining 25%. The accompanying letter of wishes accused them of plotting with their mother to take control of his finances. The estate was valued between £750,000 and £1 million.
The daughters argued in the case Ginger & Others v Mickleburgh & Others that their father’s beliefs had no factual foundation. They presented testimony from healthcare professionals and family members who tried to reason with him. The judge accepted that his delusions were unpersuadable. He remained convinced of the conspiracy despite clear medical evidence of his condition.
The ruling sends the estate back to intestacy rules. This means the four daughters will now inherit the property and assets equally. The court’s decision highlights how severe mental illness can distort legal intent, even when the testator appears functional. The daughters’ legal battle lasted years, but the January 2026 verdict finally restored their inheritance rights.