Iowa law provides important protections for surviving spouses, particularly in situations involving blended families, second marriages, and estate planning disputes. In many cases, a surviving spouse cannot be completely disinherited and may have legal rights to a portion of the deceased spouse’s estate regardless of the terms of a will or trust.

In addition to inheritance rights, Iowa law may provide a surviving spouse with certain allowances and benefits during the administration of an estate. These protections are designed to help ensure financial stability and fairness following the loss of a spouse.

Sullivan & Ward assists clients in understanding and protecting their spousal rights during estate administration and probate proceedings. Our attorneys have experience representing both individuals seeking to enforce these rights and those involved in disputes regarding the scope and application of spousal protections.