Navigating Estate Litigation, Trusts, and Succession Law: Insights from the 2024 Supreme Court ‘Alphabet’ Decision

29 April, 2025 | Carolyn Ranson

At Smith and Partners, we pride ourselves on staying abreast of pivotal legal developments that shape the landscape of estate litigation, trusts, and succession law in New Zealand. The 2024 Supreme Court decision in A, B and C v D and E Limited as Trustees of the Z Trust—commonly referred to as the ‘Alphabet’ case—serves as a landmark ruling with significant implications for fiduciary duties and estate planning.

Understanding the ‘Alphabet’ Case

In this case, the appellants—adult children of the deceased, Robert—challenged the transfer of his assets into a trust, which effectively excluded them from benefiting upon his death. They argued that Robert’s actions breached fiduciary duties owed to them, stemming from a history of abuse during their childhood.
The Supreme Court acknowledged that fiduciary duties exist between a parent and minor child but clarified that these duties generally cease once the child reaches adulthood or the caregiving relationship ends. The Court declined to extend these duties into adulthood based solely on past abuse, emphasizing that imposing such obligations without an ongoing relationship would “read equity backwards” and create legal uncertainty.

Implications for Estate Planning and Trusts

This decision underscores the importance of transparent and equitable estate planning. While the Court recognized the appellants’ hardships, it highlighted the limitations of current legislation in addressing such scenarios. Notably, the Family Protection Act 1955 lacks provisions to counteract asset transfers, such as to a Trust, intended to defeat potential claims, a gap the Law Commission has proposed to address in future reforms.

Our Expertise in Navigating Complex Estate Matters

Our firm specialises in guiding clients through the intricacies of estate litigation, trust disputes, and succession planning. We offer comprehensive services, including:

• Estate Litigation: Representing clients in challenging wills and navigating disputes arising from estate distributions.
• Trust Disputes: Advising on conflicts between trustees and beneficiaries, and addressing issues of trustee obligations and conduct.
• Succession Planning: Crafting strategies to ensure fair and legally sound distribution of assets, minimising potential disputes.

Our team is committed to providing empathetic and cost-effective legal solutions, ensuring our clients’ rights and interests are protected.

Staying Ahead: Legislative Reforms on the Horizon

The ‘Alphabet’ case has spotlighted the need for legislative change to address asset transfers that undermine rightful/ethical claims. The Law Commission’s proposals aim to empower courts to recover assets transferred with the intent to defeat entitlements, signalling a future shift towards more robust protections for claimants.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalised guidance, please consult with our legal professionals

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If you require assistance with estate/life planning, trust management, or potential disputes, our experienced team is here to help.

Complete the form below and we will get back to you promptly or contact Carolyn Ranson on carolyn.ranson@smithpartners.co.nz