If you’ve been left out of a Will, or not been left as much as you need, you may be able to make a claim under the Inheritance Act. Our solicitors can help you make an Inheritance Act claim, or defend one if your inheritance is being threatened by a claim.
For a consultation about your Inheritance Act claim, call us on 0345 604 4895 or contact us online.
What Is The Inheritance Act?
A person is entitled to leave their estate to whoever they want. However, there are some people who might reasonably expect to have a share of it.
The Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 is a law to protect people who are financially dependent on another person when they die. It means that some dependants can claim against a Will that doesn’t provide a reasonable amount of inheritance for them.
People who are covered by the Inheritance Act can include:
- A spouse or civil partner.
- Children (both minors or adults), including adopted children or someone who has been treated as a child of the marriage (step-children for instance).
- A former spouse or civil partner – if they have not remarried.
- Someone living continually with the deceased for at least two years before their death.
- Any person being financially maintained in some way by them.
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When Can You Make An Inheritance Act Claim?
Our specialist solicitors could help you make an Inheritance Act claim if:
- The deceased didn’t leave a valid Will (this is known as intestacy)
- You’ve been left out of the Will
- You’ve not been left as much as you need.
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Inheritance Act Claim Time Limits
You have six months to make an Inheritance Act claim, starting from the date probate was granted.
In some circumstances you may be able to apply to the court for an extension, so it’s still worth contacting us if you’re out of time but you think you might have a claim.
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How Much Does It Cost?
Most of our clients pay privately for our expert advice. Sometimes, we might be able to offer you a funding arrangement, but this is strictly subject to assessment (which will incur a charge) and at our discretion. Funding may include:
- Private fee paying (most common)
- Legal Expenses Insurance
- Payment on conclusion
- Conditional Fee Arrangement.
The options available may vary. They depend on a number of factors, including:
The type of claim
The value (to ensure costs remain proportionate)
The number of parties
The risks we identify.
If appropriate, our lawyers will discuss any options available for your particular claim at the outset.
We’ll always try and tailor the method of paying to your circumstances where possible.
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Why Choose Us?
Whether you’re making a claim under the Inheritance Act or defending one, our solicitors can help. We have the largest Will, Trust and Estate Disputes team in the country and we specialise in dealing with complex estates of many different sizes and value.
We understand how sensitive inheritance disputes can be and work towards amicable resolutions wherever possible. Our lawyers are expert negotiators and mediators, and will always try to settle claims out of court with a minimum of fuss. However, if it comes to it, we’re experienced taking claims through the court process and will support you every step of the way.
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Contact Us
Call us today on 0345 604 4895 or contact us online.
Leading team of experienced and knowledgeable lawyers
National coverage throughout the UK
Resolved some of the UK's most high-profile disputes
Skilled negotiators and mediators
0370 1500 100
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