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25422 Colette Way, Calabasas, CA 91302-3148
1551 N. Tustin Ave., Suite 1020, Santa Ana, CA 92705
267 E Santa Fe Ct, Placentia, CA 92870
3020 Old Ranch Parkway, Suite 300, Seal Beach, CA 90740
915 W. Imperial Hwy., Suite 160, Brea, CA 92821
3161 Michelson Dr, Suite 1025, Irvine, CA 92612
1901 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1050, Los Angeles, CA 90067
10940 Wilshire Blvd., 16th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90024
15760 Ventura Blvd, Suite 1920, Encino, CA 91436
16133 Ventura Blvd, Suite 805, Encino, CA 91436-2741
790 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91101
1999 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 3500, Los Angeles, CA 90067-3044
144 Davis St, Santa Paula, CA 93060
7700 Irvine Center Dr Ste 800, Irvine, CA 92618
15615 Alton Pkwy, Suite 450, Irvine, CA 92618
3061 E La Palma Ave, Anaheim, CA 92806
1218 El Prado Ave, Suite 128D, Torrance, CA 90501
300 Spectrum Center Dr, Suite 1550, Irvine, CA 92618
18300 Von Karman Ave, STE 660, Irvine, CA 92612
5707 Corsa Avenue, Suite 104, Westlake Village, CA 91362
PO Box 4, Atwood, CA 92811
3200 Park Center Dr, Suite 720, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
1800 N Broadway, Suite 101, Santa Ana, CA 92706
750 Fairmont Ave, Suite 200, Glendale, CA 91203
200 Sandpointe Ave, Suite 575, Santa Ana, CA 92707
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