'I am my aunt's main carer and she said she would provide for me in her will. But now she says she's leaving everything to a nephew. What can I do?'

"Do verbal promises of inheritance have any legal standing, or can my work and loyalty and sacrifices be overlooked - while this nephew who barely visits gets everything? Query: Dear Mary Frances, I am the primary support for my elderly aunt, who is now in a nursing home. I have helped her with almost every aspect of her life from helping her manage her finances, paying her bills, taking her to medical appointments and making sure she is safe and comfortable every day."

"I do this out of love and a sense of duty, and for years she assured me that she would make provisions for me in her will in recognition of the care I provide."

Wills and testamentary dispositions generally must be in writing, signed, and witnessed to be enforceable. Oral promises to leave property are usually unenforceable unless they amount to a contract, part performance, or fall under doctrines such as promissory estoppel or constructive trust. Caregiving, paying bills, and managing finances can be evidence of an agreement if there was a bargained-for exchange or clear and convincing proof. Remedies vary by jurisdiction and may require probate or contract claims. Immediate steps include documenting contributions, obtaining written confirmations or formal estate documents, and consulting an experienced estate attorney promptly.

Read at Independent