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11400 West Olympic Boulevard, Suite 1600, Los Angeles, CA 90064
10850 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 825, Los Angeles, CA 90024
777 S. Figueroa Street, Suite 4250, Los Angeles, CA 90017
6080 Center Drive, Suite 600, Los Angeles, CA 90045
1235 North Harbor Blvd., Suite 200, Fullerton, CA 92832
200 Spectrum Center Dr, Suite 1650, Irvine, CA 92618
445 S Figueroa St, Suite 3100, Los Angeles, CA 90071
550 South Hope Street, Suite 2000, Los Angeles, CA 90071
707 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 4825, Los Angeles, CA 90017
2625 Townsgate Road, Suite 330 (Third Floor), Westlake Village, CA 91361
2029 Century Pk E, Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA 90067
11111 Santa Monica Blvd, Suite 850, Los Angeles, CA 90025
1 Park Plaza, Suite 900, Irvine, CA 92614
963 W Ave J, Lancaster, CA 93534
771 E. Daily Drive, Suite 230, Camarillo, CA 93010
915 E. Main Street, Suite A, Santa Paula, CA 93060
550 S Hope St, Suite 2170, Los Angeles, CA 90071
400 South Hope Street, Suite 1200, Los Angeles, CA 90071
3900 W Alameda Ave, Suite 2100, Burbank, CA 91505
450 Newport Center Dr, Suite 400, Newport Beach, CA 92660
11620 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 900, Los Angeles, CA 90025
475 Washington Blvd, Marina del Rey, CA 90292
267 D St., Upland, CA 91786
10100 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 2200, Los Angeles, CA 90067
782 Pacific Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90813
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