Simple Steps to Prevent Estranged Relatives from Inheriting Your Assets

Even with a carefully drafted will or trust, outdated paperwork can cause major problems. Many accounts—such as life insurance policies, retirement plans, and payable-on-death accounts—transfer directly to the listed beneficiary. That means if an estranged family member remains on an old designation, they may inherit those funds regardless of what your will says.

Other tools, like no-contest clauses, can help discourage legal challenges by stating that anyone who disputes your estate plan will forfeit what they would have received. Documenting your decisions and choosing a capable, neutral personal representative or trustee also strengthens your plan and minimizes future conflicts.

 

Regular updates are essential. Reviewing your estate plan every few years—or after major life events—ensures that estranged relatives stay excluded and that all documents reflect your current wishes. 

 

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If you want to prevent the wrong people from inheriting your estate, our experienced team can help. We offer thoughtful, strategic guidance for your estate plan in Washtenaw County tailored to your personal and family circumstances.

Keeping Estranged Family Members Out of Your Estate Plan: What You Need to Know

If you’re estranged from a family member, you probably don’t want them inheriting your property—yet without the right estate planning documents, Michigan law may give them exactly that. When someone passes away without a will, intestacy laws determine who inherits, and the court will not consider personal relationships or family conflicts.

To prevent unintended inheritances, the first step is creating a legally valid will that clearly names your beneficiaries—and just as importantly, clearly excludes anyone you don’t want to inherit. Adding a disinheritance clause and ensuring proper execution can further protect your wishes.

 

A revocable living trust is another powerful tool. Because trusts avoid probate and remain private, they reduce opportunities for disputes and challenges, especially from estranged relatives. Trusts also allow you to outline exactly who inherits and under what conditions.

 

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These decisions can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Our attorneys provide strategic, compassionate guidance for your estate plan in Washtenaw County to help you protect your legacy and ensure it reflects your wishes—not Michigan’s default rules.