The case illustrates that where a testator suffering from dementia makes repeated unfounded accusations against family members and dramatic unexplained variations in testamentary dispositions incompatible with expressed views about beneficiaries, this may evidence absence of testamentary capacity rather than merely its prejudiced exercise. Expert medical evidence of impaired insight, judgment and decision-making ability, even where not directed specifically to testamentary capacity, may be given considerable weight. A testator's retention of social skills may mask serious cognitive impairment, and lay evidence of apparent competence must be assessed critically in light of the medical evidence.
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