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The inheritance rights of loved ones are defeated if the testator is under the undue influence of another. To set aside a will on the basis of a claim of undue influence the contestant must prove

1. the existence and exercise of an influence upon the testator,
2. which operated to subvert or overpower the testator’s mind at the time the will was executed, and...
3. such that the execution would not have occurred but for the undue influence.

The courts have defined the question as whether ". . . the testator’s free agency was destroyed and . . . his will overcome by excessive importunity, imposition or fraud, so that the will does not, in fact, express his wishes as to the disposition of the property, but those of the persons exercising the influence.”

“The exercise of undue influence may be accomplished in many different ways - directly and forcibly, as at the point of a gun; but also by fraud, deceit, artifice and indirection; by subtle and devious, but nonetheless forcible and effective means.”

Undue influence “may be exercised through threats or fraud or the silent power of a strong mind over a weak one.”

If you have questions about your inheritance rights and would like to talk to an estate planning attorney or a lawyer who is familiar with inheritance and probate law to advise you about your inheritance rights, click on the "Contact Us" tab at the top.