Contesting a Will: When and How Can Beneficiaries Challenge an Estate Plan

Contesting a will estate can be a complex and emotionally challenging process. When beneficiaries believe they have been unfairly treated or excluded from an estate plan, they may have legal grounds to challenge the will. In this blog post, we’ll explore the circumstances under which beneficiaries can contest a will and the steps involved in this challenging process.

Understanding the Basics 

 1. Grounds for Contesting a Will 

Contesting a will is not a matter to be taken lightly, and it’s essential to have valid reasons to do so. Some commonly explored grounds for challenging a will include:

 a. Lack of Capacity 

If the testator (the person who created the will) was not of sound mind or did not understand the implications of their decisions when creating the will, it may be contested on the grounds of lack of capacity.

 b. Undue Influence 

It can be challenged if someone exerts undue influence on the testator to manipulate their decisions in the will. This would stipulate that the will was not made in accordance with the true wishes of the testator.

c. Fraud or Forgery 

If there’s evidence of fraud or forgery in the creation or execution of the will, beneficiaries can contest it.

 d. Improper Execution 

A will must be made in accordance with the laws and rules of the province of origin. It may be challenged if there are discrepancies in how the will was signed or witnessed.

e. Claims of Unfair Treatment 

Beneficiaries may contest a will if they believe they were unfairly treated or omitted from the estate plan without valid reasons.

2. Who Can Contest a Will? 

Not just anyone can contest a will. Generally, those who can contest a will include:

– Beneficiaries named in the will

– Heirs who would inherit if the will were invalidated

– Those named in the previous will if the contested will is not the first

– Creditors if they believe their claims will be affected

 3. Consult with an Attorney 

The first step in contesting a will is to consult with an experienced estate attorney. They can assess the case’s merits, provide guidance, and help you understand your rights and options.

 4. Filing a Lawsuit 

Your attorney will file a lawsuit to challenge the will in court. This initiates the legal process, and all interested parties will be notified.

5. Gathering Evidence 

Both sides will present evidence to support their claims. This may include medical records, witness testimonies, and other documentation related to the testator’s mental state and intentions.

6. Mediation and Settlement 

Parties may sometimes opt for mediation to reach a settlement before going to court. This can be a less contentious and costly alternative.

7. Court Proceedings 

If no settlement is reached, the case will proceed to court. A judge will hear the arguments, review the evidence, and decide on the will’s validity.

8. Final Decision 

The court will issue a final decision, either upholding the will, invalidating it, or making modifications based on the evidence presented.

Contact Minhas Lawyers

Contesting a will is a legal process that should not be undertaken lightly. Beneficiaries must have valid grounds and the support of an experienced attorney to navigate this challenging journey. If you believe you have a legitimate reason to challenge an estate plan, consult with legal advice to discuss your options and understand the best course of action. Minhas Lawyers can provide the guidance and support you need during this difficult time, ensuring your rights are protected and justice is served.