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

A "no-contest" clause in a will is intended to deter beneficiaries from contesting the validity of the will by imposing a penalty if they do so. The primary purpose of this clause is to create a disincentive for any potential challenges to the will's provisions. If a beneficiary decides to contest the will and loses, they may face disinheritance or a reduction in their share of the estate, as specified in the clause. This serves to maintain the testator's intentions and reduce the likelihood of protracted legal disputes among heirs.

The other choices do not align with the purpose of a "no-contest" clause. Mandating attendance at the will reading is unrelated to the clause's function. Similarly, specifying the coverage of legal fees by the estate and guaranteeing equal distribution among family members do not pertain to a clause designed to deter legal challenges. Thus, the option stating that the clause aims to prevent beneficiaries from challenging the will by threatening disinheritance accurately captures its essence and rationale.