u/tigbird007

My father died and his will stated that his wife (my stepmother) was to have the benefit of his estate during her lifetime, and that after her death the estate should pass equally to all five children (her children and my father's children).

My stepmother has now died, but her children are claiming that they inherit everything and that my father's children are not entitled to any share as there was 'no will'

Given the wording of my father's will, do my siblings and I have a legal claim to the estate, and can we challenge their position?

I only have an a email copy of my dad and stepmothers signed witnessed will which shows I (along with my stepsister) am an executor. Don't think the will was registered anywhere, just copies sent to me and my stepsister.

EDIT: Just wanted to say thank you to everyone who responded. I've found the information really useful. I was just going to walk away and chalk it down to experience thinking I didn't have a hope but now Im going to go and see a probate solicitor for advice.