How can I challenge a will in North Carolina for lack of testamentary capacity or undue influence?

Detailed Answer

Under North Carolina law, only certain individuals may contest a will after it has been admitted to probate. The process centers on proving either that the testator lacked the mental capacity to make the will or that someone unduly influenced the testator’s decisions.

1. Who May Contest a Will?

North Carolina General Statute § 31-48 limits the right to contest to:

• The surviving spouse.
• Children or descendants of deceased children.
• Those entitled under a prior will or by intestacy if no will existed.
• Other devisees named in the will who receive a lesser share than under a prior will.

Learn more: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 31-48.

2. Grounds for Contesting the Will

Lack of Testamentary Capacity. A testator must understand the nature of the act, know the extent of their property and the natural beneficiaries, and grasp how the will distributes assets. If at the time of signing the testator could not meet these elements, you may challenge the will on capacity grounds.

Undue Influence. You must show someone exerted coercion or manipulation that overcame the testator’s free will. Evidence may include:

• Isolation of the testator from family or advisors.
• Excessive control over daily life and financial affairs.
• Sudden changes in the will favoring the influencer.

For more detail on permissible grounds, see N.C. Gen. Stat. § 31-51.

3. Timing and Procedure

After a will is admitted to probate, you must act quickly:

• File a written objection (“exception”) within 20 days of the order admitting the will. See N.C. Gen. Stat. § 31-49.
• In some cases, you may have up to two years from admission to raise claims for lack of capacity or undue influence, but you should not delay.
• Serve notice on all interested parties and the personal representative.
• Attend a hearing where the court will consider evidence and testimony.

4. Burden of Proof and Evidence

The contestant bears the initial burden to present sufficient facts supporting lack of capacity or undue influence. If you meet this burden, the proponent of the will must show the document reflects the testator’s free and informed choice.

Key evidence includes:

• Physician or mental health records.
• Affidavits from witnesses present when the will was signed.
• Communications or documents showing the influencer’s control.
• Proof of changed relationships with natural heirs.

Checklist for Contesting a Will in North Carolina

• Confirm you qualify under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 31-48.
• Gather evidence of mental incapacity or undue influence.
• File your objections within 20 days of probate admission.
• Serve all interested parties and the estate’s personal representative.
• Prepare to present sworn testimony and documentary proof at a hearing.
• Consult North Carolina statutes and consider expert evaluations of capacity.

Take Action Today

If you believe a loved one’s will in North Carolina should be challenged for lack of testamentary capacity or undue influence, don’t wait. Pierce Law Group’s experienced attorneys guide you through every step of the probate contest process. Contact us now by emailing intake@piercelaw.com or calling (919) 341-7055. Protect your rights and ensure the testator’s true intentions prevail.