Top Berkeley, CA Contesting a Will Lawyers Near You
1 Post St, Suite 2800, San Francisco, CA 94104
50 California Street, Floor 34, San Francisco, CA 94111
3478 Buskirk Ave, Suite 1000, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523-4378
2261 Market St, #14, San Francisco, CA 94114
1233 Alpine Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Two Embarcadero Center, Suite 1450, San Francisco, CA 94111
318-C Diablo Road, Danville, CA 94526
835-D Fifith Ave, San Rafael, CA 94901
2033 N. Main St., Ste. 750, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
1901 Harrison Street, Suite 1500, Oakland, CA 94612
2540 Camino Diablo, Suite 200, Walnut Creek, CA 94597
1600 S Main St, Suite 285, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
428 Molimo Drive, San Francisco, CA 94127
71 Stevenson Street, San Francisco, CA 94105
456 Montgomery St, Suite 2200, San Francisco, CA 94104
3030 Ashby Avenue, Suite 107, Berkeley, CA 94705
560 Mission Street, Suite 3100, San Francisco, CA 94105
1300 Clay Street, Suite 600, Oakland, CA 94612
165 S Park St, San Francisco, CA 94107
PO Box 269, Menlo Park, CA 94026
490 43rd St, #37, Oakland, CA 94609
1320 Solano Avenue, #203, Albany, CA 94706
185 North Redwood Drive, Suite 220, San Rafael, CA 94903
2140 Shattuck Ave, Suite 605, Berkeley, CA 94704
1999 Harrison St, Suite 1800, Oakland, CA 94612
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