Inheritance issue - AIBU?

[summerisler]

I’m speaking with a solicitor tomorrow but just wondered if there was anyone with any idea about wills and such that could maybe advise if I’m wasting my time or not.

My auntie sadly died three years ago, and tragically 6 months after her death my cousin, her only child, committed suicide. It was a truly horrible time for our family. In her will, my auntie left her entire estate to my cousin. My cousin had no will so my aunties estate and what little money my cousin had of his own was handed to his next of kin, his father. He and my auntie were divorced.

I was named in my aunties will as the second beneficiary (after my mother, her sister) in the event of my cousin dying before her or ‘the gift failing for any other reason’, which I assume could mean his death after hers. My half-siblings were each listed after me.

I am estranged from my half-siblings and have had no relationship with my ‘Uncle’. My ‘Uncle’ has divided up the money between himself and my siblings, excluding me and our mother. They have offered no explanation for this.

I didn’t necessarily want the money but gave found myself very upset at this. I am sad and feel that my aunties wishes haven’t been carried out but don’t know enough about the legalities of it all. She would be appalled if she knew her ex-husband had anything to do with her estate. If I had received an inheritance my children would have been in receipt of it.

Legally I’m not sure where I stand. AIBU to say that I don’t think it’s right that my siblings and aunties ex-husband have cut me out?

YANBU to be upset but this is a lesson as to why wills are so important. Otherwise money can go to people that the deceased doesn’t even like all that much. Sorry for your loss

Thanks @BigPaperBag - appreciate your words.

Thankyou @IndecentFeminist - it does.

Tell your Mum to make sure hers & your Father's Will are v clear as to who is to benefit as you don't want any room for misinterpretation by the mean siblings. It seems unfair & I understand but I think if ye all keep your distance from each other & it is accepted that there is an estrangement for years, why would you expect any favourable treatment from them now? Money never makes things better, only worse. Take the high road & shine on...

Thankyou so much for your words @SionnachGlic - high road very much being taken and my parents wills and power of attorney are all sorted. I will be the sole beneficiary. My siblings also have problematic relationships with each other and received different amounts so I can imagine it will rumble on for some years for them all while I’m well out of it.

I sympathise hugely. My grandfather passed and left his estate to his daughter who moved abroad 40 years ago (not saying they didn’t stay in touch or visit). He completely cut out his two sons, one of which was as local and looked after him and visited weekly. It’s not about the money, it’s the principle so I understand your perspective. My uncle is contesting, my dad isn’t (my dad is the visiting son btw)

Thanks @Soulstirring - really appreciate your words. It’s the not being included that has really upset me - even though we are estranged. I know that probably sounds strange to most people and that not being included was to be expected but I was included in my aunties will, as were my half-siblings. She always thought of us all even though we’re not in touch. I really feel for your Dad. That’s a really hard position to be in and it must add terribly to the bereavement. I hope he finds resolution soon.