Contesting a Will
When a person makes a Will they are entitled to leave their Estate to whomever they wish. In certain instances, contesting a Will is allowed. You can only challenge a Will once the person who has made the Will has died.
There are several reasons why a Will may be contested:
Lack of valid execution
For a Will to be valid it must be validly executed, the Deceased must have signed the Will and that signature must have been witnessed by at least two witnesses, in the presence of the Deceased. The witnesses must also sign the Will in the Deceased’s presence.
Lack of Testamentary capacity
A (testator) person making a Will must be capable of making a valid Will at the time it is made. This means that they must be aged 18 years or over and must be of sound mind, memory and understanding. The Testator must be capable of understanding the nature of his/her acts and its effect and the extent of the property which they are disposing under the Will. She/he must also be aware of those who they would morally be expected to provide for and must not be suffering from a medical condition which would affect their decision.
Lack of Knowledge and Approval
The Court must be satisfied that the Testator knew and approved the contents of the Will when it was executed.
Lack of Testamentary Intention
A document purporting to be a Will is only valid as a Will it if was intended by the maker to operate as a Will. Without this required Testamentary Intention by the person making the Will the document will not operate as a Will.
Undue influence
The court will declare the Will as invalid if it was the result of actual undue influence. If a Testator is coerced or forced into making a Will, the Court may set aside the Will either fully or in part.
Fraudulent and forged wills
Fraud invalidates a Will on the basis that the mind of the testator did not go with the document they signed.
Pearson Solicitors can advise you on any potential action. If you have any concerns regarding a Will you should act without delay.
Our specialist Solicitors in our Inheritance and Will Disputes Department are available to have a free initial, no obligation conversation. Contact us about your case on 0161 785 3500.
