Top Costa Mesa, CA Contesting a Will Lawyers Near You
I have been practicing in this area for the past 13 of my 35-year legal career. I find this work especially rewarding.
Se Habla Español
Free Consultation
At Stone & Sallus, we specialize in providing comprehensive legal services tailored to meet the unique needs of our business and real estate clients in Los Angeles and El Segundo.
Se Habla Español
Free Consultation
Virtual Appointments
Helping You Prepare Your Family for the Future
Free Consultation
1800 N Broadway, Suite 101, Santa Ana, CA 92706
350 S Grand Ave, 27th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90017-2566
633 W 5th St, Suite 5850, Los Angeles, CA 90071
5241 E Santa Ana Canyon Rd, Suite 107, Anaheim, CA 92807
400 Corporate Pointe, Suite 300, Culver City, CA 90230
PO Box 4, Atwood, CA 92811
4590 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 175, Newport Beach, CA 92660
3200 Park Center Dr, Suite 720, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
12301 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 303, Los Angeles, CA 90025
1218 El Prado Ave, Suite 128D, Torrance, CA 90501
4326 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807
100 Oceangate, Suite 1200, Long Beach, CA 90802
301 E. Colorado Boulevard, Suite 705, Pasadena, CA 91101-1911
200 W Santa Ana Blvd, Suite 200, Santa Ana, CA 92701
530 S Glenoaks Blvd, Burbank, CA 91502
340 Golden Shore, Suite 450, Long Beach, CA 90802
16830 Ventura Blvd, Suite 130, Encino, CA 91436
999 Corporate Drive, Suite 200, Ladera Ranch, CA 92694
1100 Glendon Avenue, 14th FL, Los Angeles, CA 90024
4 Park Plaza, Suite 1900, Irvine, CA 92614
500 N Central Ave, Suite 930, Glendale, CA 91203
111 W Ocean Blvd, Suite 1960, Long Beach, CA 90802
1851 E 1st St, Suite 850, Santa Ana, CA 92705
41240 11th St W, Suite A, Palmdale, CA 93551
3662 Katella Ave, Suite 113, Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Costa Mesa Contesting a Will Information
Lead Counsel independently verifies Contesting A Will attorneys in Costa Mesa and checks their standing with California bar associations.
Our Verification Process and Criteria
Ample Experience
Attorneys must meet stringent qualifications and prove they practice in the area of law they’re verified in.Good Standing
Be in good standing with their bar associations and maintain a clean disciplinary record.Annual Review
Submit to an annual review to retain their Lead Counsel Verified status.Client Commitment
Pledge to follow the highest quality client service and ethical standards.
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 Costa Mesa?
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