A Contested Will

[Finora66]

My children’s Grandfather passed away in 2008. He left his estate to his in laws .So their Aunt contested the Will and said she was trying at least to get something for the 5 Grandchildren. She was successful and because my 2/children where only 6 and 7 she said she had put money into trust funds till they where 18. The other 3 grandchildren where around 30 yrs old at the time. She told my children’s father about the trust funds. Last year he passed away suddenly and we came into contact with her . She lives in Yeovil . My children where again told their money was in trust funds till 18. So my son contacted her as he was turning 18 within a few weeks and asked for his trust fund details and my daughters.
She has now said that She contested the Will and it’s all her money and basically she wasn’t going to give them anything now and they now have their Dads small estate. I do believe her 2 children received their inheritance and the other child.
I have got copies of the original Will and Probate but I cannot find out what happened to their Grandads estate and how it was apportioned out once she successfully contested it. I believe his estate was around £130000. I have contacted the Solicitors of the original Will but they are not letting me know what happened.
How would I find out and could my children make a claim from her . I would also like to send her a legal letter asking for the details,but unfortunately I cannot afford to hire a solicitor. My children are devastated as they have Always been told that at 18 they would receive their share of it like the other 3 Grandchildren. After losing their father last year and now this it’s been a very difficult time for them. I would like to try and do this for them.
Any help would be appreciated Thank you

[New Judge]

"...but unfortunately I cannot afford to hire a solicitor."

That is unfortunate because it is unlikely you will be able to resolve this yourself. Barmaid may be along with some ideas, but I think professional advice will be needed.

[tamborine]

your childrens share would be £26k each plus interest. The 18y qualifying child has a right to sue for his trust fund share on maturity & he could sue the aunt at court to reveal the trust fund or compensate the 18y old. I dont think you can sue for your son and 18y may not be prepared for Court. However, a formal letter warning aunt of legal proceedings might worry aunt - (email is best for evidence). Dont panic, your son has time on his side.

[woofgang]

He can sue all he likes but if the cash is spent I don't fancy his chances.

[tamborine]

The aunt has a house, hopefully.