You’re entitled to investigate bringing a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. This act identifies specific people who can bring a claim if they do not stand to benefit under a deceased’s will or under the laws of intestacy. As someone who has been living as husband and wife for the 2 years prior to the deceased’s death, you are a person who is entitled to consider bringing a claim. After that, other specific requirements will be required by the court. After making a claim, the court would take into account your considerations in determining whether or not you should receive anything from the estate.
Other people who can bring a claim include children (including children who have been treated as a child of the deceased and even adult children), a surviving spouse or civil partner and any person who was being maintained by the deceased before their death.