Top Santa Monica, CA Contesting a Will Lawyers Near You
Premier Estate Planning Firm in South Bay
Se Habla Español
Free Consultation
Virtual Appointments
The Lahera Law Office was founded to provide high-quality service that helps our clients deal with their Estate Planning, Probate, and Estate Administration issues. Call now!
Se Habla Español
Free Consultation
Helping You Prepare Your Family for the Future
Free Consultation
10250 Constellation Blvd, Suite 1400, Los Angeles, CA 90067
1888 Century Park East, Suite 1100, Los Angeles, CA 90067
400 Continental Blvd, FL 6, El Segundo, CA 90245
3010 Old Ranch Pkwy, Suite 450, Seal Beach, CA 90740
1880 Century Park East, Suite 1101, Los Angeles, CA 90067
17011 Beach Blvd, Ste 900, Huntington Beach, CA 92647
24025 Park Sorrento, Suite 280, Calabasas, CA 91302
333 S Hope St, Suite 2900, Los Angeles, CA 90071
24031 El Toro Road, Suite 301, Laguna Hills, CA 92653
11150 W Olympic Blvd, Suite 1100, Los Angeles, CA 90064
16133 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 855, Encino, CA 91436
2975 Huntington Dr., Suite 201, San Marino, CA 91108
300 E State St, Suite 440, Redlands, CA 92373
27282 Calle Arroyo, Ste. 200, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
2001 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 205, Santa Monica, CA 90403
Contesting a Will Lawyers | Serving Santa Monica, CA
39 N California St, Ventura, CA 93001
19000 MacArthur Boulevard, Suite 575, Irvine, CA 92612
4340 Campus Drive, Suite 100, Newport Beach, CA 92660
5133 Eagle Rock Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041
1806 Orange Tree Lane, Suite C, PO Box 9058, Redlands, CA 92375
515 Flower St, 18th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071
24338 El Toro Rd, Suite E611, Laguna Woods, CA 92637
1875 Century Park East, Suite 1600, Los Angeles, CA 90067
300 E. State Street, Suite 200, Redlands, CA 92373
1200 Paseo Camarillo, Suite 280, Camarillo, CA 93010
Santa Monica Contesting a Will Information
Lead Counsel Verified Attorneys in Santa Monica
Lead Counsel independently verifies Contesting A Will attorneys in Santa Monica and checks their standing with California bar associations.
Our Verification Process and Criteria
Ample Experience
Attorneys must meet stringent qualifications and prove they practice in the area of law they’re verified in.
Good Standing
Be in good standing with their bar associations and maintain a clean disciplinary record.
Annual Review
Submit to an annual review to retain their Lead Counsel Verified status.
Client Commitment
Pledge to follow the highest quality client service and ethical standards.
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