You need to check the laws in your particular state since state laws vary regarding the drafting of wills. In some states a child need not be mentioned in a will and the disinherited child can do nothing except try to challenge the technical validity of the will. In some states the testator must mention in the will that they have intentionally omitted their child(ren) or the will can be vulnerable to challenge. A minor child cannot be disinherited.
If you have further questions you should consult with an attorney in your area who specializes in probate law.
A step parent does have some rights, but they are extremely limited. In Wisconsin, step parents do have rights regarding day to day care, BUT their rights are subject to the wishes of the biological parent that they are married to. As regards parental rights, a step parent is not considered a parent, but a legal guardian. In all major decisions (custody) or major events, a step parent does NOT have rights, nor can they contest a parent's rights in court unless they can prove a danger to the child would occur. In fact, a step parent who interfears with a biological parent's rights in any way can be held in Contempt for doing so. In ALL matters regarding the children, the rights of the step parent is ALWAYS trumped by either biological parent, unless a judge interseeds. In joint custody arrangements, both parents have equal rights, no one parent is above the other, no matter who has the children more, and a step parent cannot be a tie-breaker unless both parents agree. Only a judge, federal law, or state law can overrule or remove a biological parent's rights. The bottom line is the rights of a step parent in Wisconsin are VERY limited and are always subject to the biological parents.
Biological children can be eligible for survivor benefits when are of minor age and a parent dies. The termination or relinquishment of parental rights does not always relieve the requesting parent of financial obligations to his or her children, unless those children have been legally adopted. Whether or not a minor child qualifies for SS or SSI benefits would depend upon the individual's circumstances.
Unfortunately they don't, even when you are married. If the other parent has died, then you can apply to be guardian of the children, where you would then get rights. Or if the other parent couldn't look after then children, the same could happen.
Step-parents have no "legal rights" regarding their step children unless they have been legally adopted.
Unless visitation rights for the non-custodial parent were allowed in the divorce paperwork, the custodial parent is completely within their rights to deny the non-custodial parent visitation....however, the non-custodial parent may sue for visitation rights.
Why should adult children have any rights to the personal gains of a parent, unless they worked to add to them?
because they just do
because they just do
It is certainly possible. Grandchildren can be entitled to a share of their grandparent's estate. Part of it will depend on how the will was written, or the laws for that jurisdiction. Consult a probate attorney for help!
In general, children from a second marriage do not inherit rights or assets from the estate of their parent's previous deceased father. However, laws vary by jurisdiction, so it's important to consult with a legal expert to understand specific rights related to inheritance and estate laws in your region.
Biological and legally adopted children generally have the same rights in their parent's estate if their parent dies intestate, or, without a will. Children do not inherit an interest in property that was held jointly with a surviving spouse. However, they may inherit an interest in property held solely by the decedent. You can check the laws of intestacy in your state in the related question below.
Both parents of a deceased child have an equal right of inheritance. If one parent had custody that parent has the right to make funeral arrangements but the other parent should be consulted if possible.
The rights of a minor child in a deceased parent's estate depend on state laws and the parent's will. Typically, minor children are entitled to inherit from their deceased parent's estate, either through intestate succession laws or as specified in the parent's will. A guardian or trustee is often appointed to manage the inheritance on behalf of the minor child until they reach the age of majority. Consulting with a legal professional would help determine the specific rights of the minor child in this situation.
As a step parent you do not have rights to your partners children unless you adopt them.
Not if the other parent has joint custody and/or visitation rights.
An estate would be opened and the assets and debts inventoried. The remains would be split between the two children, the part for the 16 year old would be put into a trust until they reach the age of 18.
It indicates that one parent has the child or children less time than the primary custodial parent. For example the children may reside with the mother the majority of time, and have visitation with the father on weekends, holidays, etc. The parent with primary custody is the one who has specified rights to make decisions such as schooling, medical care and so forth. Joint custody indicates each parent has equal rights as to how the children are cared for in the above mentioned instances, and other contributing factors. Sometimes the court specifies such rights in the custody order, sometimes they are only implied.