The Will Challenge Lawyers is a dedicated legal team helping clients all across Sydney, NSW protect their inheritance in will disputes. If you’re thinking about contesting a will, it’s important to know your legal options and an experienced lawyer can lead the way. Let’s look at the top considerations in inheritance disputes and what you should know before contesting a will.
Reasons to Contest a Will
You can choose to challenge a will or contest a will. The Will Challenge Lawyers can help you whether you wish to challenge a will, arguing that the entire document should be void, or contest a will if you feel you have been wrongly left out or treated unfairly. The main reasons for will contests are to protect your inheritance and fight for your fair share if you were not named in the will or feel your portion is unreasonably small.
Who Can Contest a Will
To contest a will, an eligible person needs to file a family provision claim within 12 months from the date of death. An immediate family member, former spouse or de facto partner is eligible to contest a will. If you feel the terms of a family member’s will are unfair or wrong, it’s best to get in touch with inheritance dispute lawyers in Sydney as soon as possible. If claims are delayed, the estate assets may be distributed already, making for more complex claims.
What Happens When a Will is Contested
When you contest a will in Sydney, the court will look at several considerations, including the legal recognition that people should leave a “proper” part of their estate to family members to help them succeed in life. To decide whether a will is “proper”, the court will review your relationship with the deceased and your state of health, financial circumstances and dependants. The courts will also review special contributions made to the deceased’s wellbeing and assets and how you conducted your affairs with them throughout their life. Inheritance dispute lawyers in Sydney will help you best prepare for this process with evidence of your ongoing relationship.
Get in Touch with Inheritance Dispute Lawyers in Sydney
With many things to consider in inheritance disputes, your best option is to speak with a specialist solicitor in Sydney for independent legal advice. Contact The Will Challenge Lawyers online, and we will be in touch within one business day.