Undue Influence and What Constitutes an Abrupt Change

Family members expect a loved one’s Will to reflect their true intentions when they pass away. But in some cases, heirs are shocked to discover abrupt or unexpected changes to the estate plan. These sudden alterations can raise serious questions about whether the will was made freely or whether someone else exerted undue influence over the person who created it.

In Florida, where retirees and aging adults are often targeted by opportunistic individuals, it’s important to recognize signs of undue influence. Seeking guidance from a skilled Pompano Beach estate litigation lawyer ensures an estate is administered fairly and in line with the true intentions of the deceased.

Examples of Sudden Will Changes

Not every change to a will is suspicious, people are allowed to revise their estate plans as life circumstances evolve. For example, marriage, divorce, or the birth of a grandchild may naturally lead to updates. Yet certain types of sudden, unexplained changes may indicate improper influence, especially if they occur late in life or shortly before death.

Examples of suspicions changes include:

• Disinheriting close family. A parent suddenly removes children or long-standing beneficiaries from the Will without a clear explanation.
• Favoring a new companion or caregiver. Caretakers or romantic partners unexpectedly receive the bulk of the estate, particularly if the relationship was short or recent.
• Last-minute revisions. A significant change was made shortly before death, especially when the individual was ill, isolated, or dependent on others.
• Unusual provisions. The Will directs assets in ways that contradict the person’s lifelong statements, values, or previous planning.
• Secretive changes. Modifications occur without notifying family members or the long-time estate attorney.

These scenarios don’t automatically prove undue influence, but they can be red flags that warrant closer review.

Under Florida law, undue influence occurs when someone manipulates or pressures another person into changing their estate plan in a way that benefits the influencer. This is especially concerning when the testator (the person making the will) is vulnerable due to age, illness, or reliance on others for care.

What to Do if You Suspect Improper Changes

If you believe a loved one’s Will was changed under suspicious circumstances, you don’t have to accept it at face value. Heirs and beneficiaries may contest the validity of the Will in probate court. A Pompano Beach estate litigation lawyer can help by reviewing the estate documents, identifying irregularities, and gathering evidence of coercion or incapacity. Next, an attorney may file a will contest in court to protect your inheritance rights.

Estate planning should reflect a person’s genuine wishes, not the pressure or manipulation of others. While people have the right to change their wills, sudden and unexplained alterations may signal undue influence.

Where were you when you learned about changes in a loved one’s estate plan? If you suspect that a loved one’s will was improperly changed, legal professionals who are available to compassionately listen to your story and help you fight for your rights. Talk to  the legal professionals at Mark R. Manceri, P.A. to explore next steps. Schedule a confidential consultation today.