Top Berkeley, CA Contesting a Will Lawyers Near You
2010 Crow Canyon Pl, Suite 100, San Ramon, CA 94583
423 Washington Street, Suite 600, San Francisco, CA 94111
315 Montgomery St, Tenth Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104
201 Spear St, Suite 1100, San Francisco, CA 94105
534 Pacific Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133
4900 Hopyard Road, Suite 100, Pleasanton, CA 94588
100 Pine St, Suite 1250, San Francisco, CA 94111
101 California Street, Suite 3800, San Francisco, CA 94111
120 Kearny St, Suite 3230, San Francisco, CA 94108
1068 Sanchez St, San Francisco, CA 94114
555 California Street, 26th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104
1501 N Broadway, Suite 360, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Two Embarcadero Center, Suite 1450, San Francisco, CA 94111
43480 Mission Boulevard, Suite 270, Fremont, CA 94539
865 Laurel St, Ste 4, San Carlos, CA 94070
2855 Mitchell Dr, Suite 105, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
333 Twin Dolphin Drive, Suite 700, Redwood City, CA 94065
2540 Camino Diablo, Suite 200, Walnut Creek, CA 94597
1 Post St, Suite 2800, San Francisco, CA 94104
842 Mendocino Ave, Berkeley, CA 94707
4111 18th St, Suite 5, San Francisco, CA 94114
1999 Harrison St, Suite 1501, Oakland, CA 94612
391 Taylor Blvd, Suite 220, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
2041 Bancroft Way, Suite 206, Berkeley, CA 94704
520 Warren Street, Redwood City, CA 94063
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