Been Left Out Of A Will?

If you have been left out of a will and wish to make a claim, here are some general steps to consider:

1. Seek legal advice: Consult with a solicitor who specialises in probate and inheritance disputes. They can provide you with specific guidance based on your circumstances and help you understand your rights and options.

2. Determine your eligibility: In the UK, certain individuals may be eligible to make a claim against a will if they fall into specific categories, such as a husband/wife, civil partner, child, or dependant of the person who died. Your solicitor can assess whether you have a valid claim based on these criteria.

3. Understand the time limits: In England and Wales you generally have six months from the grant of probate to make a claim.

4. Mediation or negotiation: Before initiating formal legal proceedings, it may be advisable to explore mediation or negotiation as a way to resolve the dispute. Your solicitor can help facilitate this process and represent your interests.

5. Gather evidence: If you believe you have a valid claim, gather any evidence that supports your case. This might include documents, financial records, correspondence, or witness statements that demonstrate your relationship with the person who died or show reasons why you should have been included in the will.

6. Initiate a claim: If mediation or negotiation is unsuccessful or not suitable, your solicitor can help you initiate a formal claim against the estate. This may involve filing a claim with the court and providing all relevant evidence and supporting documentation.

7. Attend court proceedings: If your claim proceeds to court, you will need to attend hearings and present your case. Your solicitor will guide you through the process and represent you in court.

It’s important to note that inheritance laws and procedures can be complex, consulting with a solicitor who specialises in this area of law is crucial to understand your rights and navigate the legal process effectively.

Our team has extensive experience dealing with Contentious Probate matters.

We are sympathetic, understanding, and are here to help you every step of the way.

We are here to help. We can get it sorted. It’s what we do. Call us. It’s free to ask.