Can a spouse contest a will after waiving estate rights?

Full question:

On what basis can a spouse contest a will of the deceased spouse when the deceased spouse has signed off his rights to share in the estate?

Answer:

Under Kansas law, a spouse may contest a will even if the deceased spouse signed a waiver of estate rights. This is possible if the surviving spouse can prove that the waiver or agreement is invalid. Grounds for contesting may include:

  • Lack of mental competency of the deceased spouse at the time of signing
  • Undue influence exerted on the deceased spouse
  • Failure to execute the agreement according to Kansas law

According to Kansas Statutes, a premarital agreement can cover property rights and obligations, including the disposition of property upon death (see Kan. Stat. Ann. § 23-802, § 23-804). If the surviving spouse believes the agreement is unenforceable, they may seek to have it set aside in court.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

No, a spouse cannot change their deceased partner's will after they pass away. Only the person who created the will (the testator) can modify it while they are alive. If changes are needed, the deceased's will must go through probate, and any amendments must have been made prior to their death.