Top Kittery, ME Contesting a Will Lawyers Near You
One Monument Square, Suite 600, Portland, ME 04101
PO Box 3786, Portland, ME 04104-3786
121 Main Street, Yarmouth, ME 04096
66 Pearl Street, Suite 200, Portland, ME 04101
One City Center, Suite 11100, Portland, ME 04101
6 City Center, Floor 3, Portland, ME 04101
41 Hutchins Drive, Portland, ME 04102
120 Exchange Street, PO Box 7206, Portland, ME 04112
431 Main St, Saco, ME 04072
1 Union Street, Suite 501, Portland, ME 04101
10 Dana St, Suite 200, Portland, ME 04101
76 Settlers Retreat Rd, Wells, ME 04090
14 York Street, The Cannery, Portland, ME 04101
2145 Post Rd, PO Box 1647, Wells, ME 04090
11 Main St, Ste. 5, Kennebunk, ME 04043
511 Congress Street, PO Box 9711, Portland, ME 04104
215 Commercial Street, 4th Floor, Portland, ME 04101
75 Pearl Street, Portland, ME 04101
220 Middle Street, PO Box 4600, Portland, ME 04112
Merrill's Wharf, 254 Commercial Street, Portland, ME 04101
One City Center, P.O.Box 9546, Portland, ME 04101
2 Monument Square, Suite 900, Portland, ME 04101
11 Main St, Suite 4, Kennebunk, ME 04043
97A Exchange St, Suite 404, Portland, ME 04101
Two Monument Square, Portland, ME 04101
Kittery 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 Maine’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 Kittery?
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 Maine?
- 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