How Do I Leave a Stepchild Out of a Will?
Full Question:
Answer:
If you want to leave a step-child out of the will altogether , what should you state in the will so that it will not be challenged by this child , if anything ? The step-child is an adult who lives outside the state of TN
You have the right under law to not leave anything to a child, unless you have agreed in some manner (like a written contract) to leave them something. It is best to specifically say in the will that the omission is intentional and to specifically identify the child by name stating that you wish to leave him/her nothing or a nominal sum like a dollar to prevent a future claim that the omission was a mistake.
It is possible for an heir to claim the will was invalid due to lack of mental competency of the deceased spouse, undue influence, or that the agreement was not executed in accordance with state law. A non-contestability clause is a will provision, under which anyone who challenges the will will be disinherited. In some cases, a signing of a will is videotaped and questions are asked of the testator to prove competency at the time of signing.