Top Berkeley, CA Contesting a Will Lawyers Near You
2440 Camino Ramon, Suite 135, San Ramon, CA 94583
111 Anza Blvd, Suite 200, Burlingame, CA 94010
235 Montgomery St, Suite 630, San Francisco, CA 94104
50 California St, Suite 2900, San Francisco, CA 94111
1100 Sansome St, San Francisco, CA 94111
1 Post St, Suite 2400, San Francisco, CA 94104
4111 18th St, Suite 5, San Francisco, CA 94114
44 Montgomery St, 38th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104
101 California Street, Suite 2100, San Francisco, CA 94111
650 California Street, San Francisco, CA 94108
101 2nd St, Suite 2200, San Francisco, CA 94105
650 California St, Suite 2000, San Francisco, CA 94108
900 Middlefield Rd, Redwood City, CA 94063
555 California Street, Suite 2000, San Francisco, CA 94104
465 California Street, Suite 1020, San Francisco, CA 94133
5335 College Ave, Suite 6C, Oakland, CA 94618
961 Ygnacio Valley Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
29 Orinda Way, #1488, Orinda, CA 94563
58 Maiden Lane, 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94108
423 Washington Street, 5th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94111
555 Mission Street, Suite 2400, San Francisco, CA 94105-2933
1990 N California Blvd, 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
100 Bush St, Suite 1800, San Francisco, CA 94104
39899 Balentine Drive, Suite 315, Newark, CA 94560
44 Montgomery Street, 36th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104
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