Top Berkeley, CA Contesting a Will Lawyers Near You
365 North Canyons Pkwy, Suite 209, Livermore, CA 94551
2135 Lombard Street, San Francisco, CA 94123
50 California Street, Suite 1700, San Francisco, CA 94105
1900 S Norfolk St, Ste 350, San Mateo, CA 94403
4111 18th St, Suite 5, San Francisco, CA 94114
700 Ygnacio Valley Road, Suite 150, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
185 North Redwood Drive, Suite 220, San Rafael, CA 94903
2000 Powell St, Suite 1240, Emeryville, CA 94608
3445 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, CA 94549
842 Mendocino Ave, Berkeley, CA 94707
251 Lafayette Circle, Suite 200, Lafayette, CA 94549
555 California Street, 17th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104
1534 Solano Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94707
Flood Building, 870 Market St, Ste 767, San Francisco, CA 94102
706 Main St, Suite A, Martinez, CA 94553
5674 Stoneridge Drive, Suite 202, Pleasanton, CA 94588
533 Airport Blvd, Suite 400, Burlingame, CA 94010
3756 Grand Ave, Suite 302, Oakland, CA 94610
PO Box 269, Menlo Park, CA 94026
1601 Bayshore Hwy, Suite 300, Burlingame, CA 94010
918 Parker Street, 2nd Floor, Berkeley, CA 94710
1401 N Broadway St, Suite 200A, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
2201 Walnut Avenue Suite 200, Fremont, CA 94538
1255 Treat Blvd, Suite 300, Walnut Creek, CA 94597
6002 Barrett Avenue, El Cerrito, CA 94530
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