Yes, disinheriting a child is legally permissible in New Hampshire under RSA 551:1, provided the testator adheres to statutory formalities and avoids statutory protections. New Hampshire’s probate courts enforce testamentary freedom but scrutinize cases where disinheritance appears discriminatory or lacks rational basis. Recent 2026 amendments to RSA 551:12 require heightened evidentiary standards for no-contest clauses to prevent coercive disinheritance tactics.
Key Regulations for Disinheriting a Child in New Hampshire
- Clear Testamentary Intent: RSA 551:1 mandates explicit language in a will or trust to disinherit a child; vague or ambiguous terms risk judicial invalidation. Courts interpret disinheritance clauses strictly, requiring unambiguous exclusion to override intestacy rights.
- Statutory Elective Share: Under RSA 560:10, a surviving spouse may claim an elective share (50% of the augmented estate) despite disinheritance, unless waived via a valid prenuptial agreement filed with the Rockingham County Probate Court.
- Dependent Child Protections: RSA 561:12 prohibits disinheriting a minor child without court approval if the child’s basic needs remain unmet post-disinheritance. The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services may intervene to ensure child support compliance.