Top Petaluma, CA Contesting a Will Lawyers Near You
3432 Mendocino Ave, Suite A, Building C, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
150 Professional Center Dr, Suite B, Rohnert Park, CA 94928
1550 Airport Blvd, Suite 201, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
3755 Brickway Boulevard, Suite 200, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
420 Aviation Boulevard, Suite 204, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
PO Box 26, Santa Rosa, CA 95402
3554 Round Barn Blvd, Ste 312, PO Box 12231, Santa Rosa, CA 95406
1180 4th Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
922 First Street West, Sonoma, CA 95476
400 Aviation Blvd, Suite 200, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
438 1st St, 4th Floor, Santa Rosa, CA 95401
829 Sonoma Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
625 2nd St, Suite 102, Petaluma, CA 94952
90 South E Street, Suite 200, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
3035 Cleveland Ave, Suite 101, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
418 B Street, Fourth Floor, Santa Rosa, CA 95401
703 2nd Street, Suite 414, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
50 Old Courthouse Square, 5th Floor, Santa Rosa, CA 95402
1550 Airport Blvd, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
3554 Round Barn Blvd Suite 303, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
3550 Round Barn Blvd, Suite 312, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
144 South Cloverdale Blvd, Cloverdale, CA 95425
3554 Round Barn Blvd, Suite 310, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
PO Box 2979, Santa Rosa, CA 95405
3558 Round Barn Blvd., Suite 200, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
Petaluma 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 Petaluma?
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