Top Berkeley, CA Contesting a Will Lawyers Near You
66 Bovet Rd, Suite 280, San Mateo, CA 94402
50 California Street, 34th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94111
6210 Stoneridge Mall Rd, Suite 210, Pleasanton, CA 94588
5075 Hopyard Road, Suite 210, Pleasanton, CA 94588
44 Montgomery Street, Suite 2950, San Francisco, CA 94104
1999 Harrison Street, Suite 1210, Oakland, CA 94612
909 Montgomery St, Suite 300, San Francisco, CA 94133
315 Montgomery St, Tenth Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104
490 43rd St, Suite 201, Oakland, CA 94609
1255 Treat Blvd, Suite 300, Walnut Creek, CA 94597
4 Embarcadero Center, Suite 1200, San Francisco, CA 94111
120 Kearny St, Suite 3230, San Francisco, CA 94108
3 Embarcadero Center, Suite 800, San Francisco, CA 94111
2175 North California Boulevard, Suite 600, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
459 Fulton St, Suite 307, San Francisco, CA 94102
505 Montgomery Street, 11th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94111
601 Van Ness Avenue, Suite 2056, San Francisco, CA 94102
1910 Olympic Blvd, Ste 330, Walnut Creek, CA 94596-5005
333 Twin Dolphin Drive, Suite 700, Redwood City, CA 94065
1999 Harrison St, Suite 1501, Oakland, CA 94612
4 Orinda Way, Suite 200-D, Orinda, CA 94563
456 Montgomery St, Suite 2200, San Francisco, CA 94104
1 Bush St, Suite 900, San Francisco, CA 94104
2744 E 11th Street, Suite C06, Oakland, CA 94925
6801 Koll Center Pkwy, Suite 210, Pleasanton, CA 94566
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