Top Evanston, IL Contesting a Will Lawyers Near You
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Experienced, award-winning estate planning by a trusted local attorney. Serving Illinois clients in person and online.
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126 South Northwest Highway, Barrington, IL 60010
14919 Founders Crossing, Homer Glen, IL 60491
10231 South Western Avenue, 1st Floor, Chicago, IL 60643
5 Revere Dr, Suite 200, Northbrook, IL 60062
5940 N. Sheridan Road, Highland Park, IL 60035
915 Harger Rd, Suite 301, Oak Brook, IL 60523
151 N Franklin Street, Suite 2600, Chicago, IL 60606
1000 Hart Rd, Suite 300, Barrington, IL 60010
216 South Jefferson Street, Suite 303, Chicago, IL 60661
900 Downers Grove, #161, Downers Grove, IL 60515
2502 N Clark St, Ste 236, Chicago, IL 60614
101 North Virginia Street, Suite 108, Crystal Lake, IL 60014-3439
400 Skokie Boulevard, Suite 850, Northbrook, IL 60062
111 West Washington, Suite 1437, Chicago, IL 60602
110 N Upper Wacker Dr, 34th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606
333 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 1815, Chicago, IL 60601
300 South Wacker Drive, Suite 1700, Chicago, IL 60606
2640 Patriot Blvd., Suite 270-B, Glenview, IL 60026-8075
8501 West Higgins Road, Suite 440, Chicago, IL 60631-2811
10 South Wacker Drive, 40th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606
1580 S. Milwaukee Avenue, Suite 220, Libertyville, IL 60048
2314 W. North Ave, Suite C-1W, Chicago, IL 60647-6266
200 N Northwest Hwy, Suite 201, Barrington, IL 60010
980 N. Michigan Ave, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60611
2800 West Higgins Road, Suite 160, Hoffman Estates, IL 60169-7221
Evanston Contesting a Will Information
Lead Counsel independently verifies Contesting A Will attorneys in Evanston and checks their standing with Illinois 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 Illinois’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 Evanston?
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 Illinois?
- 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