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Taylor Rose recently provided vital pro bono legal support to Cher Maximen’s Grandmother in October 2024 to resolve a burial dispute following Cher’s tragic death. Cher was sadly stabbed at the Notting Hill Carnival in August 2024, and she passed away a few days later in hospital.
Cher’s death has left a lasting impact on her loved ones, especially her 3-year-old daughter ‘A’, who tragically witnessed the event. The situation became even more poignant when an estranged family member (“the Defendant”) attempted to claim the right to handle Cher’s burial and funeral arrangements.
The Coroner initially granted the Defendant the right to deal with Cher’s burial. However, the Defendant had a history of severe abuse towards Cher during her childhood, and their relationship remained volatile throughout her life. Cher had put several safeguards in place to protect herself from the Defendant. She had also made it clear to friends and family that she did not want the Defendant involved in her life, making it entirely inconsistent with her wishes for them to be in charge of her funeral arrangements.
As Cher passed away intestate (without a will), therefore the person legally entitled to benefit from her estate was her 3-year-old daughter, A was being cared for by her great-grandmother, ‘B’, who had obtained a child arrangement order to formalise her role as guardian. B provided a stable, loving home for both Cher and A, creating a strong and close bond between them. A’s godmother, ‘C’, and B, who had both been a constant source of support for Cher throughout her life, were determined to ensure that Cher’s wishers were honoured. To strengthen their case, they gathered supporting statements from other relatives, social workers, A’s head teacher, and friends – all of whom confirmed the loving and supportive relationship Cher had with B and C, in stark contrast to the abusive and estranged relationship she had with the Defendant.
Sharon Macaulay, Partner and Joint Head of the Contested Probate Department was committed to provide legal assistance for A and B to ensure the correct legal position was restored and for Cher’s wishes to be fulfilled. She offered to help on a pro bono basis and was also supported by her team members, Wendy Rixon and Ravandeep Khela[ , along with barrister Oliver Wooding of St John’s Chambers in Bristol, who also provided his advice on a pro bono basis.
Taylor Rose wrote to the Coroner to argue that their client was legally the rightful person to oversee the funeral arrangements. They outlined the legal basis for A’s position as Cher’s personal representative under the Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987, noting that A was being cared for by her great-grandmother, B. Additionally, they emphasised that B and C were best placed to organise Cher’s funeral in a way that would honour her wishers with the respect and dignity she deserved. Taylor Rose highlighted the significance of the chosen location of Bristol for the funeral, which Cher had clearly expressed during her lifetime, and the troubling history of the Defendant’s relationship with Cher. After carefully reviewing the evidence, Coroner Dr. Fiona Wilcox agreed with Taylor Rose’s argument and ruled in their client’s favour.
The case was resolved swiftly, and the client was deeply relieved by the outcome. This tragic situation is one that no family should have to endure; grieving the loss of a loved one is never easy, and the added burden of a legal dispute can be overwhelming. Throughout this difficult time, Cher’s wishes were supported by A’s Godmother and B, both of whom were determined to ensure the right legal assistance was in place to secure a just and rightful resolution.
The funeral took place in Bristol on 25 October 2024 and as a final dedication to Cher, here are a few quotes from the witness statements obtained in this case, which we share to honour Cher’s life. May she rest in peace:
“A devoted mother to her young daughter.”
“I witnessed her exceptional creativity, tireless work ethic, and resilient spirit, qualities that truly defined her”.
“One of Cher’s greatest sources of pride and joy was her daughter.”
“She approached every challenge with tenacity and resolve, never allowing setbacks to diminish her determination.”
“Her legacy of creativity, strength, and devotion to her daughter will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.”
“Though her life was not without its hardships, Cher faced them with courage and grace.”
If you are faced with a burial or probate dispute regarding your loved one, Taylor Rose may be able to assist with your case. Our experienced Contested Probate Department is recognised within the Legal 500 and have a wealth of knowledge on a wide range of matters in this field. They can be contacted on 020 3540 4444. If you’d like to find out more about our Contested Probate department, please click here. [
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