Even the closest siblings can end up on opposite sides of an inheritance battle. Whether it’s a disagreement over a parent’s will, questions about the executor’s actions, or unresolved tension from childhood, estate disputes can fracture families when emotions are already running high.
In New York, inheritance disputes are more common than most people realize, and a clear set of legal rules governs them. If you’re in the middle of a family conflict over a loved one’s estate, or trying to prevent one, here’s what you need to know about how New York law handles these situations.
Common Triggers for Inheritance Disputes
Sibling disputes over inheritance usually stem from a mix of grief, misunderstanding, and perceived unfairness. Some of the most common triggers include:
- Unequal distributions in the will or trust
- Last-minute changes to the estate plan that benefit one sibling
- Claims of undue influence, often involving a sibling who cared for the parent
- Accusations of forgery or fraud regarding the will
- Disputes over non-probate assets, like joint accounts or life insurance
- Concerns about the executor’s honesty or transparency
Many families are blindsided when long-simmering tension or miscommunication explodes into a formal legal dispute.
What Happens When There’s No Will?
When a parent dies without a valid will, New York’s intestacy laws take over: if there’s no surviving spouse or parent, children typically inherit equal shares of the estate.
But even equal shares on paper can spark major conflicts in real life. Siblings may argue over who deserves certain sentimental items, who paid more for end-of-life care, or whether one sibling misused a power of attorney before the parent’s passing. Things can get especially complicated with half-siblings, estranged children, or disputes about who qualifies as an heir.
Contesting a Will in New York: What the Law Allows
If a sibling believes the will is invalid or unfairly influenced, they can bring a legal challenge known as a will contest in Surrogate’s Court. However, not everyone has the right to challenge a will. Only those with legal “standing,” such as heirs who would inherit under intestacy or prior versions of the will, are entitled to do so.
Grounds for contesting a will include:
- Lack of mental capacity at the time the will was signed
- Undue influence by another person, such as a sibling or caregiver
- Fraud or forgery
Failure to meet legal formalities, such as witnesses or signatures
These cases often turn on medical records, testimony from attorneys or caregivers, and financial documentation. While emotions run high, New York courts look at facts and evidence.
Executor Conflicts and Fiduciary Duty
Sibling inheritance battles don’t always involve challenging the will itself. In many cases, the dispute centers on how the executor, often a sibling, is managing the estate.
Executors have a fiduciary duty under New York law to act in the best interest of all beneficiaries. That includes:
- Providing a full accounting of the estate’s assets and debts
- Distributing property in line with the will or legal rules
- Avoiding conflicts of interest or personal benefit
If a sibling believes the executor is hiding information, mismanaging assets, or delaying distributions, they can ask the court to compel an accounting, remove the executor, or even seek monetary damages.
Preventing or Resolving Disputes with Legal Help
Not every sibling disagreement has to end in court. In many cases, early intervention from an estate planning or probate litigation attorney can prevent a dispute from escalating into a costly and protracted legal battle. Clear communication, mediation, and a realistic understanding of legal rights often help preserve family relationships.
At Kohan Law Group, we represent both beneficiaries and fiduciaries in estate disputes. Whether you’re challenging a will, responding to a legal claim, or simply trying to understand your rights, we provide honest guidance and strategic legal support.
Legal Help for Inheritance Disputes in New York
Sibling rivalry doesn’t always end when parents pass away—and when money, property, and emotions collide, the results can be painful. But with the right legal tools and a clear understanding of New York law, many inheritance disputes can be resolved fairly.
If you’re dealing with a sibling inheritance conflict in New York, contact Kohan Law Group today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you protect your rights and bring clarity to a difficult situation.