The answer to this question can be tricky, as it will depend on which State or Territory is best placed to determine the matter – and this further depends on where the deceased person was when they died, where they ordinarily resided, and where their assets are located.
Under Queensland’s Succession Act 1981, the following categories of persons are eligible to contest the estate of a deceased person:
A Spouse
which includes:
- The married spouse of a deceased person;
- The de facto partner (or partners) – including same-sex couples – of the deceased person, provided that de facto partner has been living with the deceased person together on a genuine domestic basis for a continuous period of at least 2 years ending on the deceased’s death.
- The civil partner of the deceased person; or
- In limited circumstances, the deceased’s dependent former married spouse or civil partner.
Children
which includes:
- Biological children;
- Stepchildren; and
- Adopted children.
A Dependant
which is any person being wholly or substantially maintained or supported by the deceased person at the time of their death who is:
- A parent of the deceased person;
- The parent of a surviving child under the age of 18 years of the deceased person; or
- A person under the age of 18 years.
The above information relates to who can contest a will in Queensland, but our wills and estate lawyers also have experience with and can advise on family provision matters in other Australian States and Territories. Please contact us to discuss your potential claim.
This publication is for information only and is not legal advice. You should obtain advice that is specific to your circumstances and not rely on this publication as legal advice. If there are any issues you would like us to advise you on arising from this publication, please let us know.
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