Top Santa Monica, CA Contesting a Will Lawyers Near You
Premier Estate Planning Firm in South Bay
Se Habla Español
Free Consultation
Virtual Appointments
The Lahera Law Office was founded to provide high-quality service that helps our clients deal with their Estate Planning, Probate, and Estate Administration issues. Call now!
Se Habla Español
Free Consultation
Helping You Prepare Your Family for the Future
Free Consultation
15456 Ventura Blvd, Suite 500, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
400 N. Tustin Ave., Suite 370, Santa Ana, CA 92705
21300 Victory Blvd., Suite 300, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
43920 Margarita Rd, Suite F, Temecula, CA 92592
400 Continental Blvd, FL 6, El Segundo, CA 90245
131 N El Molino Ave, Suite 350, Pasadena, CA 91101
1600 Rosecrans Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
500 N State College Blvd, Suite 1100, Orange, CA 92868
29826 Haun Road, Suite 311, Menifee, CA 92586
1440 N Harbor Blvd, Suite 900, Fullerton, CA 92835
11693 San Vicente Blvd, PMB 562, Los Angeles, CA 90049
17592 Irvine Blvd, Tustin, CA 92780
15760 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 1520, Encino, CA 91436
5133 Eagle Rock Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041
333 S. Hope Street, 40th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071
Two California Plaza, Suite 3100, 350 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90071
1201 Dove Street, Suite 400, Newport Beach, CA 92660
2393 Townsgate Rd, Suite 201, Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
3990 Concours St, Suite 410, Ontario, CA 91764
43535 17th Street W, Suite 403, Lancaster, CA 93534
999 Corporate Drive, Suite 200, Ladera Ranch, CA 92694
19800 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 300, Irvine, CA 92612
2601 Ocean Park Blvd, Suite 324, Santa Monica, CA 90405
300 E. State Street, Suite 200, Redlands, CA 92373
444 Flower St, Suite 2200, Los Angeles, CA 90071
Santa Monica Contesting a Will Information
Lead Counsel Verified Attorneys in Santa Monica
Lead Counsel independently verifies Contesting A Will attorneys in Santa Monica 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 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