Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New Jersey
My ucle died recently and has a large estate. His beneficiaries ae my cousins and my Brother. I was sent a letter by the lawyer stating I was not a beneficiary. First of all why would they send me this letter and why would I be left off? The letter stated i could recieve a copy of the will by writing the lawyer for a copy. Why would thet send this letter. Im confused.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Condolences on your loss. Your uncle had the right to dispose of his assets however he wanted. Apparently, he did not include you in his will. You received the letter because heirs are entitled to such a notice. You are a legal heir, even if you are not a beneficiary. Why don't you just send a letter to the lawyer requesting a copy of the will? It probably won't give a reason, but you will see who was included. If you feel that there was a nefarious reason for excluding you, you should consult an estates lawyer in the county where your uncle's will was probated to find out what your options are.
THIS RESPONSE IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE, SINCE I DO NOT HAVE ALL OF THE INFORMATION THAT WOULD BE REQUIRED, AND I DO NOT HAVE A REPRESENTATION AGREEMENT WITH YOU.
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