Top Berkeley, CA Contesting a Will Lawyers Near You
PO Box 453, San Francisco, CA 94104
290 Green Street, Suite 8, San Francisco, CA 94133
1600 S. Main Street, Suite 100, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
505 Montgomery St, 13th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94111
150 N Wiget Lane, Suite 105, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
3 Embarcadero Center, Suite 800, San Francisco, CA 94111
55 2nd Street, Suite 2100, San Francisco, CA 94105
500 Sutter Street, Suite 518, San Francisco, CA 94102
2135 Lombard Street, San Francisco, CA 94123
2175 North California Boulevard, Suite 600, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
1333 North California Boulevard, Suite 450, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
700 Ygnacio Valley Road, Suite 150, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
870 Market Street, Suite 643, San Francisco, CA 94102
2 Embarcadero Center, Suite 1300, San Francisco, CA 94111-3821
PO Box 269, Menlo Park, CA 94026
185 North Redwood Drive, Suite 220, San Rafael, CA 94903
180 Montgomery Street, 16th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104
2000 Crow Canyon Place, Suite 330, San Ramon, CA 94583
100 Pine St, Suite 1250, San Francisco, CA 94111
2033 North Main Street, Suite 800, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
1350 Treat Blvd, Suite 105, Walnut Creek, CA 94597
3445 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, CA 94549
5000 Hopyard Road, Suite 225, Pleasanton, CA 94588
21 Tamal Vista Blvd, Suite 202, Corte Madera, CA 94925
140 New Montgomery St, 10th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105
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