Being judgmental about someone else’s money. Children shouldn’t pass judgment about their parents’ spending habits—if they buy a new car, for example—unless the parent or relative has fallen under the undue influence of an unethical person, or if they have lost the mental capacity to make prudent decisions with their money.
Arguing with a relative about minor things. Almost every argument about minor things arises as a result of someone speaking angrily in the heat of the moment. If the person paused for a moment, took a deep breath and thoughtfully reflected for several seconds, he would realize the wisdom of holding his tongue.
Cleaning out your parent’s house before they pass on. A parent may be in decline, but that’s no reason to get a “jump start” by removing items from the parent’s house. I have seen this enrage parents and lead to disinheritance.
Rushing to file a guardianship and conservatorship action against a relative. There may be good reasons to do this, especially if a person has lost the capacity to make rational decisions about their healthcare, finances and other issues. But under Virginia law (and in many other states), a person may be “incapacitated” for purposes of needing a guardian and conservator, yet still have the testamentary capacity needed to make a will and boot you from it.