Yes, disinheriting a child is legal in Vermont, provided the parent follows state probate laws and executes a valid will or trust. Vermont’s probate courts enforce testamentary freedom but scrutinize cases where disinheritance may stem from undue influence or incapacity. Recent 2026 amendments to 14 V.S.A. § 1901 require heightened documentation of testamentary intent to mitigate disputes.
Key Regulations for Disinheriting a Child in Vermont
- No-Contest Clauses Are Enforceable: Vermont courts uphold no-contest clauses in wills (14 V.S.A. § 2503), but exceptions apply if the challenger has probable cause to contest the will’s validity.
- Elective Share Protections: Under 14 V.S.A. § 551, a surviving spouse may claim an elective share (up to 1/3 of the estate) even if disinherited, unless waived via a valid prenuptial agreement.
- Mandatory Notice Requirements: Executors must file a sworn inventory with the Probate Division of the Superior Court (Vt. Prob. Div. Rule 10.1) within 30 days of appointment, triggering potential challenges if disinheritance appears arbitrary.
Vermont’s Uniform Probate Code (UPC) permits disinheritance but demands clear, unambiguous language in testamentary documents. Courts may invalidate provisions if evidence suggests coercion, fraud, or testamentary incapacity. Consultation with the Vermont Bar Association’s Estate Planning Section is advisable to align with 2026 compliance updates.