Claim to estate

[northj]

My father in law died without leaving a will. My wife is sole beneficiary. A lady has come forward saying the father treated her like a daughter and so wants a share. Would she have a claim and if so how would she prove it?

[KebabMeister]

I take it that you're in touch with the Probate Office?  They'll be able to offer all the advice that you require and will also follow up all claims towards the estate.

[Grunty]

KebabMeister is exactly right.  Above all, don't let this worry you.  It is by no means unusual for people to try this on.  Do not give the woman anything unless you have to as a result of legal action.  On the facts given, she has very little claim to anything.

[Oneeyedtic]

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[Peter Pedant]

I dont want to be a pedant [!} but I dont quite see how someone can die without a will and have a beneficiary.

Northj you need better advice than you can get here. Go and see a solicitor

[KebabMeister]

When my father died, he didn't leave a will.  My mother still had to go to the Probate Office and they examined how much estate he left, value etc.  If no one comes forward to make a claim on the estate then it's clearcut.  However as soon as someone does make a claim then the Probate Office will examine how eligible the other person is. 

I would not consult a solicitor until it has been through the Probates Office.  They may go in favour of your wife and you'd save money by not having consulted a solicitor.

[landie]

If he treated her like a daughter, why weren't you aware of her? Had he ever spoken of her? Would you have known if it were true?

[northj]

We had no idea. The lady was known only by his closest friends. The extent of how close it was has only just come out. The fact she has instructed solicitors shows she feels she has a claim.