Disinherits

Disinherits refers to the act of intentionally excluding a legal heir from inheriting property or assets in a will. This exclusion must be clearly stated in the will by the testator, the person making the will. Simply omitting an heir's name is generally not sufficient; a clear statement of intent to disinherit is usually required.

There are various reasons why a person might choose to disinherit an heir. Common motivations include estrangement, disapproval of a beneficiary's lifestyle or choices, or to favor other beneficiaries. In some jurisdictions, specific legal requirements must be met to ensure a disinheritance is legally valid and cannot be challenged. This might involve including specific language in the will, such as stating that the testator intentionally chose not to provide for a particular individual.

Disinheritance can lead to legal disputes, especially if the excluded heir believes the will is invalid or that they were improperly influenced. Courts may scrutinize disinheritance clauses to ensure they reflect the testator's true intentions and were not the result of undue influence or lack of capacity. The legal framework surrounding disinheritance varies significantly by jurisdiction, and it is advisable to consult with an estate planning attorney to understand the specific laws applicable.