In Australia, blended families are becoming increasingly common. This is because one-third of married couples opt for divorce later in life.
With divorces, separations, and de facto relationships, the family structures are now much more diabolical, often including biological offspring, adopted children, and stepchildren.
This increasingly complex family structure has led to an increase in the number of stepchildren contesting wills. Estate disputes can turn ugly when there’s no will. When a will legally valid exists, the inheritance distribution becomes comparatively simple.
But what if stepchildren are not a part of the will? Do they have the right to contest? Will a particular property share automatically pass to stepchildren in the event of the death of a stepparent?
Let’s find out!
If you want help preparing a will or contest against a will, it is recommended that you hire wills and estate lawyer to help you through the legal processes.