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10250 Constellation Blvd, Suite 1400, Los Angeles, CA 90067
17777 Center Court Drive N, Suite 600, Cerritos, CA 90703
1363 Donlon St, Unit 8, Ventura, CA 93003
732 North Diamond Bar Boulevard, Suite 214, Diamond Bar, CA 91765
21031 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 523, Woodland Hills, CA 91364
400 N. Tustin Ave., Suite 370, Santa Ana, CA 92705
4607 Lakeview Canyon Rd, Suite 496, Westlake Village, CA 91361
Contesting a Will Lawyers | Serving Santa Monica, CA
16133 Ventura Blvd, 7th Floor, Encino, CA 91436
23801 Calabasas Rd #2025, Calabasas, CA 91302
8001 Irvine Center Drive, Suite 1450, Irvine, CA 92618
1122 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91106
155 N. Riverview Drive, Suite 213, Anaheim, CA 92808
8141 2nd St, Ste. 545, Downey, CA 90241
120 Newport Center Drive, Ste 120, Newport Beach, CA 92660
7700 Irvine Center Dr, Suite 800, Irvine, CA 92618
1800 E. Imperial Hwy., Suite 110, Brea, CA 92821
3711 Long Beach Blvd, Suite 5047, Long Beach, CA 90807
1317 W. Foothill Blvd., Ste. 222, Upland, CA 91786
12939 Arroyo St, Sylmar, CA 91342
556 S Fair Oaks Avenue, #243 , Pasadena, CA 91105
222 E. Huntington Drive, Suite 215, Monrovia, CA 91016
450 Newport Center Drive, Suite 500, Newport Beach, CA 92660-7649
5 Park Plaza, Suite 1400, Irvine, CA 92614
26050 Acero, Suite 305, Mission Viejo, CA 92691
515 Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
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