DEPENDANTS RELIEF ACTS

Abstract

In this article the author examines how Dependants’ Relief Acts have limited the absolute liberty of testamentary disposition. Through a discussion of the history surrounding testation and the legislation converting moral duties into legal obligations, the author examines the burden of deciding moral issues that has been placed upon the courts. The author then examines the New Zealand Testator’s Family Maintenance Act, 1900, and concludes his article by discussing how it has been interpreted and administered by the courts.