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2049 Century Park East, Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA 90067-3109
655 North Central Avenue, Suite 1700, Glendale, CA 91203
865 S. Figueroa St., Suite 3100, Los Angeles, CA 90017
1235 North Harbor Blvd., Suite 200, Fullerton, CA 92832
15760 Ventura Blvd, 18th Floor, Encino, CA 91436
10517 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
31355 Oak Crest Drive, Suite 250, Westlake Village, CA 91361
1901 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1050, Los Angeles, CA 90067
300 North Lake Avenue, Suite 920, Pasadena, CA 91101-4106
10940 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1220, Los Angeles, CA 90024
201 South Lake Avenue, Suite 800, Pasadena, CA 91101
30699 Russell Ranch Rd, North Bldg., Suite 210, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
1275 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91106
1999 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 3500, Los Angeles, CA 90067-3044
PO Box 16721, Irvine, CA 92623
915 E. Main Street, Suite A, Santa Paula, CA 93060
771 E. Daily Drive, Suite 230, Camarillo, CA 93010
321 N Pass Ave, Burbank, CA 91505
200 Sandpointe Ave, Suite 150, Santa Ana, CA 92707
1901 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 675, Los Angeles, CA 90067
1040 Iowa Ave Ste 109, Riverside, CA 92507-2106
5850 Canoga Avenue, Suite 400, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
3333 S Brea Canyon Rd, Suite 205, Diamond Bar, CA 91765
8200 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 400, Beverly Hills, CA 90211
909 East Green Street, Pasadena, CA 91106
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