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80 S Lake Ave, Suite 830, Pasadena, CA 91101
707 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 4825, Los Angeles, CA 90017
15147 Woodlawn Ave, Tustin, CA 92780
133 E Bonita Ave, Suite 200, San Dimas, CA 91773
1304 El Prado Ave, Torrance, CA 90501
1440 N Harbor Blvd, Suite 900, Fullerton, CA 92835
488 South Glassell St, Orange, CA 92866
1055 E Colorado Blvd, Ste 500, Pasadena, CA 91106
550 S Hope St, Suite 2170, Los Angeles, CA 90071
9440 Santa Monica Blvd, Suite 301, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
475 Washington Blvd, Marina del Rey, CA 90292
11620 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 900, Los Angeles, CA 90025
12100 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 245, Los Angeles, CA 90025
5 Upper Newport Plaza Dr, Suite 107, Newport Beach, CA 92660
1 Park Plaza, Suite 600, Irvine, CA 92614
12121 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 801, Los Angeles, CA 90025
515 South Flower St, 7th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071
301 East Colorado Boulevard, Ninth Floor, Pasadena, CA 91101
515 S Figueroa St, 8th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071
10250 Constellation Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90067
1801 Century Park E, Suite 2400, Los Angeles, CA 90067
291 S La Cienega Blvd, Suite 310, Beverly Hills, CA 90211
100 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 700, Santa Monica, CA 90401
PO Box 16721, Irvine, CA 92623
2049 Century Park E, Suite 1700, Los Angeles, CA 90067
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