I BOUGHT a shirt that was wrapped but when I got it home and took off all the pins and bits of cardboard, it is slim fitting shirt and too tight, even though it is the right collar size. After a bit of discussion the shop took it back but the lady said they didn’t need to and could have insisted I keep it.

They are absolutely right. I am assuming you didn’t read the packaging before you bought. It is almost the first thing I look for as we of the chunkier physique require the more standard cut of shirt body, so it is up to you as customer to make the choice. If the shirt had turned out to be imperfect or marked under the packaging that would be different. And shops can choose to have a returns policy, the law does not insist on this.

MY AUNT died and I have been appointed executor. My brother wants to choose some items from the house, but I feel everything should be kept together until we are ready to complete the payout to all beneficiaries under the will. Must I allow him to take things?

If the items are sentimental value only, then there is nothing legally to stop you and she agreeing what he can take, and it would prevent bad feeling if you don’t stand on your authority. If brother wants an expensive painting or ornaments, best to get them valued first before he takes anything so this can be debited against his share in due course.

I WAS injured when a store spilled yoghurt on a floor. I have been offered £675 and some vouchers, but I don’t know if this is enough, and it doesn’t seem as if the shop owners will learn anything about customer safety from such a paltry amount.

I am not sure if you are consulting a claims company or a lawyer, but you should ask those representing you to show you the legal precedents and guidelines to break down and explain the offer – indeed the shop’s insurers should be asked to do this and you might be advised the sum is too small and the other side may be persuaded to up it. But the damages/compensation is purely for your losses, and if you were not badly injured or had to take time off work, the compensation will not be high. Unlike the USA we don’t have exemplary or punitive damages awards in our legal system in Scotland.

I HAVEN’T made a will. it suddenly occurred to me that I am going with my wife, son and daughter-in-law and grandchildren on holiday together - what would happen if the plane crashed or we were all in an accident while abroad?

With no will(s) the law of intestacy would apply, with its pecking order of succession or inheritance. If you and your wife have parents and/or brothers and sisters they would share, but if not then someone would need to find cousins or nephews and nieces to make up the numbers. Worst case scenario if there are no blood relatives your estates will go to the government.