servicing macarthur since 1950

Estate litigation

 

Achieving Security and Peace of Mind

servicing macarthur since 1950

estate litigation

 

Achieving Security and Peace of Mind

Wills can be disputed if it is believed that the Will maker did not have capacity to make the Will, the Will was not properly executed or if it is believed the Will maker was unduly influenced to make the Will. However, the most common types of disputes are known as Family Provision claims. These types of claims are generally brought because a person believes they have not been left enough under the Will for their future needs. These claims can also be brought if the deceased did not have a Will and a person is not satisfied with the amount they are to receive.

Family Provision claims can only be brought by “eligible persons” which include:

 

$

a spouse, a de facto spouse or a former spouse of the deceased;

$

a child of the deceased;

$

a person living in a close personal relationship with the deceased at the time of their death.

$

a dependent grandchild of the deceased;

$

a person who was dependent on the deceased and a member of their household;

The eligible person must then show the adequate provision for their proper maintenance, education or advancement in life has not been made by the Will of the deceased person.

In New South Wales, any claim must be brought within 12 months of the deceased’s death.

At Caldwell Martin Cox we understand that disputes after the death of a loved one can bring significant stress and we make all efforts to try to resolve matters without commencing Court proceedings where possible. However, either because of time limitations or simply because we cannot reach an agreement with the other party, it can be necessary to commence Court proceedings and we will take all steps to reach your desired outcome.

Your guide to bringing a Family Provision Claim

When someone dies, it’s an emotional and difficult time for those left behind, particularly if they are not satisfied with the provisions of their loved one’s Will.
What should I do if I feel I was dealt with unjustly in the Will?

You can make a claim based on the Succession Act 2006 if you were:

$

Married to the deceased

$

Living in a domestic relationship with the deceased at their time of death

$

A child of the deceased

$

A previous spouse of the deceased

$

A person who at some time was dependent on the deceased or a grandchild or member of the deceased’s household.

When assessing circumstances of the claim the matters considered include:

$

The wishes of the deceased

$

The relationship between the claimant and the deceased

$

The character and conduct of the claimant before and after the death of the deceased

$

The nature and size of the estate

$

The age of the claimant and beneficiaries

$

the financial position and earning capacity of the claimant and beneficiaries and their dependants

$

Any financial contribution made by the claimant to the deceased

$

Any provision made for the claimant during the life of the deceased

$
The needs of other persons dependent on the deceased
$
The physical, intellectual or mental disability of the claimant or beneficiaries
$
The current and future financial needs of all parties
$

Any contribution made by that person to the deceased’s welfare or estate

$
Any other relevant matters

An application to bring a Family Provision claim in New South Wales must be brought within 12 months of the date of death of the deceased.

Other Wills & Estate Services

Enduring Guardian
Get in Touch

02 4651 4800
help@cmcox.com.au

Open Hours

8.30am - 5.00pm Mon - Fri

We have Accredited Specialists in:

- Advocacy

- Family Law

- Property Law

         

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

Make an appointment