We are often asked, ‘Can a grandchild claim under the Inheritance Act?’ The answer is, yes, they can — as this real-life case study shows.
We specialise in dealing with inheritance disputes, representing people nationwide, often on a no win, no fee basis. If you need guidance then simply call our free legal helpline on 0333 888 0407 or email us at info@inheritancedisputes.co.uk
Solicitor Bronte Pettifer has recently succeeded in an Inheritance Act claim she made on behalf of her client against his late grandfather’s estate. Here is a summary of that case:
Our client’s relationship with his grandfather
Bronte’s client had lived with his grandfather for the majority of his life, following an abusive childhood.
However, he did not benefit under his grandfather’s Will because it had not been updated since before our client’s birth.
Our client had range of health issues, and had a clear housing need.
Unfortunately, the executors of the estate wanted him to leave the property and the police had been involved prior to us being appointed.
The claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975
We made a claim against the estate under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. This Act is designed to protect those who should be entitled to financial provision from an estate when someone close to them dies, but they are not provided for in a Will or under intestacy.
Our client had been living at his grandfather’s property for 16 years, since he was 18 years old. It was therefore clear to us that reasonable financial provision for him as a financial dependant had not been made.
In addition to proving him with accommodation, our client had also been financially dependent on his grandfather for the entirety of his adult life as he suffered from a range of medical issues that impacted his ability to work. These included:
- Autism;
- ADHD;
- PTSD;
- Anxiety; and
- Joint pain.
To support his claim Bronte relied on several medical reports from independent medical practitioners.
Armed with this evidence she was able to reach a satisfactory out of court settlement for her client to provide for his future.
How we can help you with an inheritance claim against a grandparent’s estate
If you have been left wondering, ‘Can a grandchild claim under the Inheritance Act?’ then just contact our team of recommended specialist inheritance solicitors for a free consultation.
We will review the merits of your case and let you know whether no win, no fee funding is available.
