Cambridge, MA asked in Estate Planning for Massachusetts

Q: What is the best way to prevent family members I don't want to inherit my assets from contesting my will?

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1 Lawyer Answer
Jonathan R. Roth
Jonathan R. Roth
Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Salem, MA
  • Licensed in Massachusetts

A: There are a number of ways to discourage it, but there is no absolute way to stop someone for challenging a Will for undue influence. I would be happy to discuss various strategies you can use depending upon the assets you own and who you are trying to disinherit. However, MA gives spouses a statutory right to the assets of the other spouse unless you have a pre-nup or post-nup. No relative has a statutory right to your assets other than a spouse to challenge a Will. Trusts can be used to thwart Will challenges in some cases. Please feel free to call me to discuss your concerns in more detail.

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