When you are drafting a will, it is important to keep in mind the grounds for contesting a will so you can take safeguards against a will contest arising in the future. This assignment, you will research current news stories about wills that were legally contested. You will discuss the grounds for contesting the will with other students.

When responding to the discussion questions, be sure to reference course materials to support your conclusions and opinions. You should also do the same whenever you respond to another person's discussion post. By doing so, you not only make a stronger case, but support your own learning. You will be evaluated on how well you support your claims.

Instructions

1. Research current print or online newspapers and periodicals for stories about wills that were legally contested.
2. In a discussion post, provide a brief description of the case you selected and answer the following questions:
   • What were the grounds for contesting the will?
   • Would those grounds stand according to the laws of the state you live in? Why or why not?
3. Be sure to read others' posts and respond to at least two posts by adding clarification, asking questions, or contributing constructively to the discussion. Consider the following questions:
   • What do you think are the most common reasons people contest wills?
   • Why do you think death of a family member so often brings out the worst in survivors and causes so much disagreement and strife?
   • Have you or anyone in your family ever experienced a will that was legally contested? What happened in that situation?