A 72-year-old mother is pursuing a £2 million lawsuit against her millionaire son, accusing him of exploiting her and making threats. The case, currently before the High Court, involves allegations of unpaid loans, property disputes, and a significant breakdown in their family relationship.

Family Dispute at the Heart of the Case

Moya Montgomerie, a reiki therapist, crystal healer, and ‘angel card’ reader, has brought the legal action against her son, Jason Minns, a wealthy property investor. Montgomerie alleges that Minns exploited her guilt stemming from their childhood estrangement.

Allegations of Exploitation and Threats

According to court documents, Montgomerie claims her son repeatedly demanded money, threatened to leave her homeless, and cut her off from her grandchildren. She asserts she loaned him over £1 million, including £500,000 towards the mortgage of a £1 million Hampshire home owned jointly with his wife, Stephanie.

Montgomerie alleges Minns initially agreed to transfer the property to her as partial repayment but later refused, reportedly threatening to leave her destitute. She is seeking the return of the loans, the property transfer, and compensation for mortgage payments she believes she wrongly made, as well as reimbursement for a loan against another property.

Barrister's Argument

Helen Brander, Montgomerie’s barrister, argues that Minns manipulated his mother’s guilt and fear of rejection to obtain money over the years. She claims he responded to any questioning of his financial demands with threats, including cutting off contact with her grandchildren or eviction.

Son and Wife Deny Allegations

Jason Minns and his wife deny the allegations, describing Montgomerie as a “serial liar.” They claim much of the money was a gift and counter that she owes them £310,000. They state they would only sell her the house if she settled this debt.

The couple disputes owing Montgomerie more than £40,000 in loans, suggesting this amount should be offset against what she owes them. Justice Richard Smith acknowledged the “awful family background” during a pre-trial hearing.

Complex Family History

Montgomerie experienced a difficult childhood, losing both parents by age 12. She had her son at 17 and divorced his father in the 1980s, with Minns subsequently living with his father. Her legal team argues that Minns has used her past struggles to his financial advantage.

The trial is expected to thoroughly examine the history of their relationship, with both sides presenting evidence. The outcome will have significant financial and emotional consequences for the family and could set a precedent for similar cases.