Who typically brings dependence relief claims in estates?

In the context of claims for dependency relief within estates, unmarried partners have a specific legal standing that allows them to bring claims for support or assistance from the estate of a deceased partner, particularly if they can demonstrate financial dependence on the deceased. This ability recognizes the economic contributions and sacrifices made by unmarried partners in a relationship, similar to what is often granted to spouses.

Married partners, while having rights to claims for support, are not the focus here as the question specifically seeks to identify who typically brings these claims when marital status is a consideration. Transferees of property refer to individuals who have received property from the estate but do not inherently have a claim for dependency relief based solely on property transfer. Children of the deceased also have their rights and claims under estates, but they usually concern inheritance rather than dependency relief motivated by a need for financial support apart from the estate’s distribution.

Thus, unmarried partners are correctly identified as the group that primarily brings dependence relief claims, reflecting their role in the familial dynamics of modern relationships, particularly when there is a need for financial support following the death of their partner.