Family Triumphs in £700k Inheritance Dispute Over Forged Will and Fake Wedding
A family has secured a decisive victory in a £700,000 court battle against their late mother's "toxic" boyfriend, who attempted to claim her estate using a forged will and a fabricated marriage certificate. The High Court ruling exposes a shocking case of deception following the tragic death of Kassy Sinar, a 46-year-old London cleaning company boss and mother, who succumbed to breast cancer in October 2023.
Background of the Dispute
Kassy Sinar, originally from Manchester but residing in London, had executed a valid will in 2022, leaving her entire £500,000 estate in trust for the benefit of her 16-year-old daughter, Jocey. However, after her passing, her partner and Jocey's father, Cengiz Arif, produced a document he claimed was Kassy's true last will, dated May 2023, which bequeathed everything to him. Additionally, Arif asserted that he and Kassy had secretly married in Cyprus in September 2006, a claim unknown to her close family.
Legal Challenge and Court Proceedings
Kassy's brother, Ernest Sinar, who along with his wife Michelle serves as Jocey's legal guardian, initiated legal action on behalf of the family. Chief Master Karen Shuman presided over the case, where Arif failed to appear in court to defend his claims. The judge meticulously examined the evidence, including testimony from a handwriting expert and inquiries with Turkish authorities regarding the alleged marriage.
Judge's Findings and Ruling
Chief Master Shuman delivered a scathing verdict, declaring both the 2023 will and the marriage certificate as "forged" documents. She highlighted that Turkish authorities confirmed no wedding occurred on the claimed date, and the named registrar was not working. The judge described Arif's explanation for the 2023 will as "preposterous" and "incredible," noting the signature showed signs of forgery.
Key points from the ruling include:- The 2022 will was upheld as valid, ensuring Kassy's estate benefits her daughter.
- Arif was removed as executor and trustee, with an injunction preventing him from accessing estate assets.
- He was ordered to pay approximately £206,000 in legal costs, with an upfront payment of £120,000.
- The judge condemned Arif's conduct as demonstrating "a want of honesty and fidelity."
Details of the Estate and Relationship
Kassy's estate, valued at over £500,000, includes properties in Kimberley Gardens, Finsbury Park, and Thurston Street, Burnley, along with more than £35,000 in cash from rental income. The court heard that Kassy and Arif had an on-off relationship, with Kassy reportedly describing it as "abusive and toxic" and refusing his marriage proposal. Tragically, Arif left her to travel abroad during her final weeks of life.
Aftermath and Family Response
Following the ruling, Verity Hudson of Rothley Law, representing Ernest Sinar, stated, "This was a complex and emotional case that required careful investigation. Having worked closely with the family since 2023, we're so pleased to have helped secure the right outcome for them." The family had previously been banned from Kassy's funeral by Arif, leading them to hold a separate memorial service.
This case underscores the importance of proper estate planning and legal vigilance in protecting familial interests against fraudulent claims.
