The court's power to omit words from probate requires satisfaction of two criteria: the words must have no dispositive effect or testamentary purpose, and must be characterised as scandalous, offensive, defamatory or blasphemous. Even where both criteria are met, the court retains a discretion. Words explaining a testator's reasons for excluding a beneficiary, even if inferring inappropriate conduct, will not be omitted unless a reasonable person would be so offended as to require their omission. The power must be exercised with great care and only in a clear case.
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