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229 Ave I, Suite 200, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
540 Sespe Ave #2, Fillmore, CA 93015-1990
2 North Lake Avenue, Suite 460, Pasadena, CA 91101
634 Enchanted Way, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
1806 Orange Tree Lane, Suite C, PO Box 9058, Redlands, CA 92375
1999 Avenue of the Stars, 17th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90067
2901 W Coast Highway, Suite 200, Newport Beach, CA 92663
6608 Palm Ave, Riverside, CA 92506
1461 Ford Street, Suite 203, Redlands, CA 92373
1100 Glendon Avenue, 14th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90024
300 Esplanade Drive, Suite 850, Oxnard, CA 93036
301 North Lake Avenue, Suite 410, Pasadena, CA 91101
80 S Lake Ave, Suite 830, Pasadena, CA 91101
PO Box 16721, Irvine, CA 92623
624 South Grand Avenue, 27th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90017
310 N. Indian Hill Blvd, #625, Claremont, CA 91711
4160 Temescal Canyon Road, Suite 202, Corona, CA 92883
505 Technology Dr, Suite 150, Irvine, CA 92618
6400 Canoga Avenue Suite 313, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
1801 Century Park East, Suite 1250, Los Angeles, CA 90067
777 South Figueroa Street, Suite 4000, Los Angeles, CA 90017
2049 Century Park E, Suite 3200, Los Angeles, CA 90067-3218
333 S Grand Ave, Ste. 4700, Los Angeles, CA 90071
8081 Stanton Avenue, Suite 306, Buena Park, CA 90620-3249
915 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1650, Los Angeles, CA 90017
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