Signs a Will May Be Fraudulent or Forged

A beloved family member’s death is often one of the most devastating events a person will face in their life. Unfortunately, there are things that may happen during this time that can make matters even worse. One example is the possibility of a forged or fraudulent will.

When a loved one passes away, they may have some sort of estate plan in place, such as a will. Their will is meant to serve as a clear guide to how their assets should be distributed. This is supposed to make the probate process easier, but sometimes all it does is create problems.

For example, some wills are fraudulent or forged, leading to disputes during probate. A probate dispute can tear families apart as family members argue over assets.

This can cause a lot of extra stress during an already difficult time. Identifying red flags early can help protect the estate and ensure the decedent’s true wishes are honored. Do you have concerns? If so, here are some signs of fraud or forgery that you should look for.

Suspicious Signatures
One of the clearest signs of forgery is a signature that doesn’t match the testator’s known handwriting. A shaky, inconsistent, or unusually neat signature could suggest the will was signed by someone else.

Questionable Witness Testimony
Most states require at least two impartial witnesses to sign the will. If those witnesses can’t be located, deny being present, or appear to have a personal interest in the estate, the will’s legitimacy may be in doubt.

Changes That Favor One Beneficiary
If a new version of the will drastically alters the distribution, especially favoring one person who had influence over the deceased, it could indicate undue influence or fraud.

Lack of Attorney Involvement
While not required, many valid wills are drafted or reviewed by attorneys. A hastily prepared, handwritten, or template-based will without legal guidance may invite suspicion, especially if other red flags exist.

Missing Pages or Inconsistent Formatting
Altered documents may show mismatched fonts, missing initials, or pages that appear to be added later. These inconsistencies could suggest tampering.

Uncharacteristic Provisions
If the will contains unusual instructions that contradict the decedent’s long-standing intentions or values, this could be a warning sign of manipulation or fraud.

Evidence of Coercion or Isolation
If the decedent was isolated, dependent on one person, or under pressure when the will was executed, there may be questions and concerns about undue influence.

Seek Legal Help

A loved one’s death can bring about a lot of grief, especially if there are signs of a fraudulent will. This discovery can make matters worse during an already difficult time.

Dealing with an estate can be difficult when there are concerns about the will. Get the help you need from Fort Lauderdale probate litigation lawyer Edward J. Jennings, P.A  We have the knowledge and experience to help settle your disputes and move forward after a loved one’s death. Schedule a consultation with our office today by calling 954-764-4330 or filling out the online form.

Source:

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