What is a "no-contest clause" in relation to a will?

A "no-contest clause" in relation to a will is a provision designed to discourage beneficiaries from contesting the will. It typically stipulates that if a beneficiary challenges the will and is unsuccessful, they will forfeit their right to inherit under that will, potentially leading to disinheritance. This provision aims to maintain the testator's wishes and reduce the likelihood of disputes among beneficiaries after the testator's death.

The correct choice emphasizes the protective purpose of such a clause, reinforcing the idea that beneficiaries should respect the intentions outlined in the will. In contrast, the other options misinterpret the function of a no-contest clause. For example, allowing beneficiaries to contest freely does not align with the intent of the clause, and promoting transparency is not the primary aim. Additionally, a no-contest clause does not invalidate the will itself; it merely sets conditions around how beneficiaries may interact with the will's terms.