Top Berkeley, CA Contesting a Will Lawyers Near You
181 2nd Avenue, Suite 218, San Mateo, CA 94401
1001 Country Club Dr., Suite F, Moraga, CA 94556
3100 Oak Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94597
961 Ygnacio Valley Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
7677 Oakport Street, Suite 1140, Oakland, CA 94621
251 Lafayette Circle, Suite 200, Lafayette, CA 94549
533 Airport Blvd, Suite 400, Burlingame, CA 94010
706 Main St, Suite A, Martinez, CA 94553
1534 Solano Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94707
Flood Building, 870 Market St, Ste 767, San Francisco, CA 94102
5674 Stoneridge Drive, Suite 202, Pleasanton, CA 94588
100 Pine Street, Suite 1250, San Francisco, CA 94111
1500 Park Avenue, Suite 300, Emeryville, CA 94608
511 West 3rd Street, Antioch, CA 94509
One Post Street, Suite 600, San Francisco, CA 94104
155 Montgomery Street, Suite 1004, San Francisco, CA 94104
3950 Civic Center Dr, Suite 300, San Rafael, CA 94903
4733 Chabot Drive, Suite 203, Pleasanton, CA 94588
2140 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 1201, Berkeley, CA 94704
3445 Golden Gate Way, Lafayette, CA 94549
4 Orinda Way, Suite 280-B, Orinda, CA 94563
1919 Addison Street Suite 201, Berkeley, CA 94704
505 Montgomery Street, 10th Fl, San Francisco, CA 94111
411 Borel Avenue, Suite 405, San Mateo, CA 94402
736 Ferry Street, Martinez, CA 94553
Berkeley Contesting a Will Information
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What Are Will Contests?
While a last will and testament can make it easier to distribute assets to loved ones upon passing, it can still lead to conflict among beneficiaries or people who were left out. If you suspect that there was a problem with a loved one’s will, you can challenge its validity in court. You must prove that the will did not meet certain criteria when the decedent created it.
What Are Some Examples of Situations Where I Might Need a Lawyer To Contest a Will?
There are certain grounds for contesting a will’s validity. You should talk about your options for contesting a will with a lawyer if you suspect that the decedent:
- Was not of sound mind when they made the will
- Signed the will under duress, undue influence, or coercion
- Created a fraudulent will
- Created a will that did not follow California’s laws
How Can a Lawyer Help Me With Contesting a Will?
A lawyer who is experienced in will contests will be able to guide you through the process of drafting a strong claim in probate court. They will know what evidence to look for that a will could be considered invalid.
What Could Happen if I Don’t Hire a Lawyer To Help Contest a Will?
Navigating probate court and will contests is an extremely complex process. A court will not simply take you at your word that the decedent was influenced by someone else and that you “deserve” certain assets. Without a lawyer it will be difficult to build a strong, credible claim that you are a rightful beneficiary.
What Questions Should I Ask When Trying To Find an Estate Planning Lawyer in Berkeley?
These questions can help you decide if you feel comfortable and confident that a lawyer has the qualifications, experience, and ability to manage your case well. Many lawyers offer free consultations that allow you to understand your options and get specific legal advice before hiring them. The top questions to ask include:
- How have you handled cases like mine?
- What are the potential outcomes of my case?
- What is the timeline for completing my estate plan?
- What is your billing and fee structure?
- How long have you been practicing in California?
- What will my involvement be during the process?
Tips for Hiring an Estate Planning Lawyer
Finding a lawyer who is right for you and will represent your best interests is an essential first step in managing your defense and protecting your rights. Find a lawyer who understands your case, knows your needs and goals, and has the experience to get the best outcome. Things to do:
- Ask for recommendations
- Research lawyers online
- Schedule consultations
- Review experience and expertise
- Talk about billing and fees
- Trust your instincts