If you run a non-profit or charity of any kind, you may find your organisation named in a final will and testament. Across the UK, more people than ever before are choosing to leave some (or occasionally all) of their estate to one or more good causes they supported during their lifetime.
Unfortunately, this is a selfless act of kindness that can trigger a number of complications. You may have been promised something very specific by the deceased party prior to their death, which you subsequently failed to receive. Alternatively, you may find yourself the recipient of a sizeable estate, only for the will to be contested by the deceased party’s friends, family members or both.
In all such instances, it is essential that you seek expert legal support at the earliest possible stage. At Aristone Solicitors, we have extensive experience in all aspects of will, trust and estate issues for charities and non-profit organisations.
Will, Trust and Estate Issues for Charities
Contesting a will isn’t something any charitable organisation enjoys doing. If you are running a business entirely for the benefit of others, the last thing you want is to find yourself embroiled in a complex and sensitive legal quarrel.
However, it is your right and your obligation to contest a final will and testament, should you suspect any of the following:
- The terms of the will are unclear or incomplete
- The will as a whole is invalid
- The deceased party did not approve the will
- The will was drafted under pressure or duress
- The will (in part or in full) is a counterfeit
- The deceased party was not in sound mind at the time
With cases like these, it can be very difficult to know where you stand from a legal perspective. Collecting, preparing and presenting evidence to successfully contest a will takes time, which is why it’s important to get your case under way as quickly as possible.
Whether you’re ready to go ahead or simply exploring the available options, we’re standing by to take your call. Contact a member of the team at Aristone Solicitors anytime for more information.
How Do I Contest A Will?
Every case we take on for a charitable organisation is different, though is pursued by way of a strategic three-step process:
- Step 1 – Investigation. The first step is to carefully examine the will and consider the validity or otherwise of your claim. At which point, a decision will be made whether or not to go ahead.
- Step 2 – Mediation. The vast majority of cases involving contest of wills can be resolved without court intervention. Expert mediation enables those involved to view the issue from an objective and unbiased standpoint.
- Step 3 – Court Intervention. Should it be necessary to involve the courts, we’ll provide the dedicated legal support and representation your charity needs to ensure a swift and amicable outcome.
For more information on our legal services for charities or to discuss any aspect of your case in more detail, contact a member of the team at Aristone Solicitors today.
