Grandchild Left Out of Will

Understanding the Basics of Wills

What is a Will?

A will is a legally binding document that outlines how an individual’s assets should be distributed upon their death. It typically names beneficiaries and assigns an executor to manage the estate’s affairs.

Who Can Be a Beneficiary?

Anyone can be named a beneficiary, including grandchildren. However, there’s no legal requirement for a grandparent to leave their assets to a grandchild.

Situations When a Grandchild Might Be Left Out

Oversight and Mistakes

Sometimes, the absence of a grandchild’s name might be due to a simple oversight or a mistake during the will drafting process.

Disinheritance

In other cases, it could be intentional. A grandparent may choose to disinherit a grandchild for personal reasons.

Trust Provisions

Or, they may have set up a trust to provide for their grandchildren separately.

Legal Recourse for Grandchildren

Contesting the Will

If you suspect that you were unjustly left out of your grandparent’s will, you may have legal grounds to contest it.

Trust and Probate Litigation

This is a complex area of law, and you’ll likely need the help of an experienced trust and probate litigation attorney.

How Hess-Verdon & Associates Can Help

That’s where Hess-Verdon & Associates come in. With our unparalleled estate planning expertise, we’re uniquely equipped to help you navigate this challenging situation. Our team brings dependability, sophistication, and over three decades of experience in estate planning, business, and commercial litigation.
Whether you’re an executor, a beneficiary, a business entity, or a real estate partner, we’re committed to delivering comprehensive, results-oriented legal counsel. We’ll use our extensive background in trial preparation, strategy, and presentation to provide the support you need.
Call us today at 1-888-318-4430 for a consultation.

FAQs

1. Why was I left out of my grandparent’s will? There may be various reasons you were left out of your grandparent’s will. It could be an oversight, a drafting error, a deliberate choice, or your grandparent may have provided for you through a trust or other means. Each situation is unique, and to understand your specific case, you might need to consult with a legal professional.
2. Can a grandparent legally exclude a grandchild from their will? Yes, a grandparent can legally exclude a grandchild from their will. Unless there is a contractual obligation to include a grandchild, the testator (the person making the will) has the discretion to decide who to include or exclude in their will.
3. What can I do if I was unfairly left out of the will? If you believe you have been unfairly or mistakenly left out of a will, you might have grounds to contest it. This process can be complex and is best handled by an experienced attorney who specializes in probate litigation. They can help you understand your rights, evaluate the validity of your claim, and guide you through the necessary legal procedures.
4. How can Hess-Verdon & Associates assist me in this process? Hess-Verdon & Associates brings over three decades of experience in estate planning, business, and commercial litigation. Our team of seasoned lawyers can provide comprehensive legal advice, help you understand your rights, and guide you through the complex process of contesting a will. We are committed to delivering results-oriented counsel and support throughout the course of your case. Contact us at 1-888-318-4430 for a consultation.