Top Rancho Santa Margarita, 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
4326 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807
1055 E Colorado Blvd, Suite 500, Pasadena, CA 91106
3020 Old Ranch Pkwy, Suite 300, Seal Beach, CA 90740
15200 Sunset Blvd, Suite 209, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
2001 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 205, Santa Monica, CA 90403
655 North Central Avenue, Suite 1700, Glendale, CA 91203
530 S Glenoaks Blvd, Burbank, CA 91502
12121 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 210, Los Angeles, CA 90025
865 S. Figueroa St., Suite 3100, Los Angeles, CA 90017
16133 Ventura Blvd., Suite 1075, Encino, CA 91436
1875 Century Park East, Suite 1600, Los Angeles, CA 90067
19800 MacArthur Boulevard, Suite 1000, Irvine, CA 92612
170 Yorba Linda Blvd, Suite 212, Placentia, CA 92870
3080 Bristol St, Suite 630, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
330 N Brand Blvd, Suite 820, Glendale, CA 91203
800 Wilshire Boulevard, 15th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90017
9350 Wilshire Blvd, No. 203, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
19800 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 650, Irvine, CA 92612
99 S Lake Ave, Suite 501, Pasadena, CA 91101
1551 N. Tustin Ave., Suite 1020, Santa Ana, CA 92705
5 Park Plaza, Ste 650, Irvine, CA 92614
600 Anton Boulevard, Suite 1800, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
3020 Old Ranch Parkway, Suite 300, Seal Beach, CA 90740
601 South Figueroa Street, Suite 3700, Los Angeles, CA 90017
22642 Lambert Street, Suite 402, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Rancho Santa Margarita Contesting a Will Information
Lead Counsel independently verifies Contesting A Will attorneys in Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita?
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