Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Massachusetts
What is an ''interested party?''
My cousin is the executix of my uncle's will. She told me he left everything to her. I was surprised, but willing to accept his wishes. I just received a form letter from his lawyer that as an ''interested party'' I may be asked to assent to my cousin's appointment. If I am not in the will, why would I be an ''interested party?''
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: What is an ''interested party?''
Because if the will is invalidated, you may have the right to collect from the estate. If you have any suspicions you should request to see a copy of the will before signing. You have a right to see the will as an interested party.
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Re: What is an ''interested party?''
As a potential heir, you have to be notified of the probate and consent to the appointment. This is important, particulalrly if you desired to contest the Will. You should ask to see a copy of the Will before signing any documents, to help make a decision if you want to accept or contest the Will. If you decide to accept it, sign the papers. If there are any questions, call a local attorney familiar with probate and Will contests to review your concerns.
Re: What is an ''interested party?''
An "interested party" may either be one who is a beneficiary of the will OR one who would recieve a distribution under the intestate laws - which are the laws governing the distribution of an estate when there is no will or if the will proves invalid. You would receive such a letter even if you were not in the will and the will were a valid one. In either case, if I were you I would request from the lawyer a copy of your uncle's will just to make sure.