Inheritance Act Claims Solicitors

The Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 provides for certain individuals to be able to bring claims against the Estate for reasonable financial provision, where the Estate does not provide for their reasonable financial needs.

This can include those affected because there is no will in place. Any claim must be made within six months of the date of the Grant of Probate.

Who can make a claim for reasonable financial provision?

Claimants can include:

  • The surviving husband, wife or civil partner
  • A former husband, wife or civil partner who has not remarried or formed a new civil partnership
  • A child of the deceased
  • Someone treated by the deceased as a child of their family
  • A cohabitee who had lived with the deceased for at least the 2 years prior to their death
  • Anyone entirely or partly maintained by the deceased immediately before death

Proving a Will is invalid due to criteria and execution

If the Will has not been executed correctly, it could be invalid and open to challenge.

In addition, to be valid a Will must meet certain criteria. This includes that the person making the will must be mentally and legally fit to do so. It must be voluntary, must be in writing and signed by the person making the will in the presence of two witnesses who must also sign.

How to make a claim under the Inheritance Act

Inheritance Act claims can be complex, so you undoubtedly need a solicitor to advise you about the strength of your case and the steps you will need to take to make a claim.

Napthens is one of only a handful of firms in the North West that has specialist expertise in inheritance and Will disputes (recognised by the Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists).

We take a supportive and sensitive approach to Inheritance Act claims, aligned with a strong technical ability, and the clarity you need to decide the best course of action at this difficult time.

Why choose Napthens?

  • Cases handled with sensitivity and professionalism
  • Highly experienced, specialists in Estate Planning and in inheritance disputes
  • Clear advice tailored to your wishes and personal situation
  • Specialists in complex personal and financial situations