I was the one washing her sheets, preparing her meals, and feeding her when she was too shaky. In the end, she placed her trust in him.”
Seek legal assistance. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Many individuals have faced similar issues with unjust wills. The best approach is to seek professional advice. Find a lawyer who specializes in estate disputes or elder law.
The fact that your ex’s friend prepared the will just weeks before your mom passed raises serious concerns. A lawyer can determine if your mother was pressured, misled, or lacked mental capacity when she signed the document. Collect any supporting information you can: medical records, witness statements (from doctors, caregivers, friends), and even past texts or emails that might reveal her true wishes.
Cut ties with your ex-husband. His offer of a “free stay” is rather insensitive. He exploited your mother’s trust and is now profiting from your family home.
It’s best to block him, sever any contact, and interact solely through attorneys if necessary. Engaging with him will only reopen old wounds. Regarding the medical bills…
You may want to hold off on payments until you consult with a lawyer.
Depending on your jurisdiction, you might not be legally liable for those bills, especially if the estate—currently under your ex’s control—should cover them. A legal expert can help you navigate this matter so you avoid paying more than necessary. You were there for your mother every step of the way.
You deserve a significant portion of her estate. It’s your right to contest the will. However, it’s worth noting that some parents opt not to leave any of their wealth to their children for various reasons, like the cases of parents who felt their son deserved all the money over their daughter.
