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17011 Beach Blvd, Ste 900, Huntington Beach, CA 92647
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4501 E LaPalma Ave, Suite 240, Anaheim, CA 92807
1901 Newport Blvd, Suite 350, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
24031 El Toro Road, Suite 301, Laguna Hills, CA 92653
660 Anson Street, Simi Valley, CA 93065
11150 W Olympic Blvd, Suite 1120, Los Angeles, CA 90064
9054 Cresta Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90035
11400 West Olympic Boulevard, Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA 90064
12100 Wilshire Blvd #710, Los Angeles, CA 90025
225 E Broadway, Suite 211E, Glendale, CA 91205
5743 Corsa Ave, Suite 208, Westlake Village, CA 91362
11150 W Olympic Blvd, Suite 1100, Los Angeles, CA 90064
16133 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 855, Encino, CA 91436
1100 Glendon Avenue, 14th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90024
2001 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 205, Santa Monica, CA 90403
300 East Esplanade Drive, Suite 1980, Oxnard, CA 93036
6080 Center Drive, Suite 600, Los Angeles, CA 90045
9401 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 830, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
10350 Santa Monica Blvd, Suite 295, Los Angeles, CA 90025
16030 Ventura Blvd. Ste. 260, Encino, CA 91436
100 Oceangate, Suite 1200, Long Beach, CA 90802
11870 Santa Monica Blvd. 106576, Los Angeles, CA 90025
111 W Topa Topa St, Suite 8, Ojai, CA 93023
21550 Oxnard Street, Suite 300, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
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