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29995 Technology Drive, Suite 101, Murrieta, CA 92563
1300 Quail St., Ste. 101, Newport Beach, CA 92660
3020 Old Ranch Parkway, Suite 300, Seal Beach, CA 90740
41530 Enterprise Cir S, Suite 208, Temecula, CA 92590
1333 2nd Street, Suite 400, Santa Monica, CA 90401
1900 Avenue of the Stars, 28th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90067
16835 Algonquin Street, Suite 303, Huntington Beach, CA 92649
2610 Main St, Suite 1200, Irvine, CA 92614
269 S Beverly Drive, Suite 1074, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
1901 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1050, Los Angeles, CA 90067
1 Park Plaza, Suite 600, Irvine, CA 92614
601 W 5th St, Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA 90071
PO Box 4238, Glendale, CA 91222
21031 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 523, Woodland Hills, CA 91364
4607 Lakeview Canyon Rd, Suite 496, Westlake Village, CA 91361
2424 SE Bristol St, Suite 300, Newport Beach, CA 92660
21300 Victory Boulevard, Suite 810, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
18231 CA-18, Suite 4, Apple Valley, CA 92307
10940 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1220, Los Angeles, CA 90024
10960 Wilshire Boulevard, 14th Floor East, Los Angeles, CA 90024
2501 East Chapman Avenue, Suite 225, Fullerton, CA 92831
860 Diamond St, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
777 S. Figueroa Street, Suite 4250, Los Angeles, CA 90017
5959 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, Suite 220, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
17777 Center Court Drive N, Suite 600, Cerritos, CA 90703
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