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PO Box 967, Loma Linda, CA 92354-0967
21600 Oxnard Street, Suite 1110, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
20241 SW Birch St, Suite 100, Newport Beach, CA 92660
5 Upper Newport Plaza Dr, Suite 107, Newport Beach, CA 92660
1900 Avenue of the Stars, 19th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90067
2975 Huntington Dr., Suite 201, San Marino, CA 91108
10345 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064
7041 Owensmouth Ave, Suite 103, Canoga Park, CA 91303
234 E Colorado Blvd, Suite 800, Pasadena, CA 91101
5308 Alhama Drive, Woodland Hills, CA 91364
15464 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
2700 E Foothill Blvd, Suite 306, Pasadena, CA 91107
515 South Figueroa Street, Suite 2060, Los Angeles, CA 90017
222 N Pacific Coast Hwy, Suite 2000, El Segundo, CA 90245
15200 Sunset Blvd, Suite 209, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
170 Yorba Linda Blvd, Suite 212, Placentia, CA 92870
655 N. Central Ave., Ste. 1704A, Glendale, CA 91203
5850 Canoga Avenue, #400, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
10100 Santa Monica Boulevard, Suite 500, Los Angeles, CA 90067
10940 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1600, Los Angeles, CA 90024
100 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 700, Santa Monica, CA 90401
4425 Jamboree, Suite 190, Newport Beach, CA 92660
2001 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 420, Santa Monica, CA 90403
3161 Michelson Dr, Suite 1025, Irvine, CA 92612
301 E Colorado Blvd, Suite 600, Pasadena, CA 91101
Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica?
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