Inheritance Recovery – Will & Trust Contests

What is a Trust or Will Contest

A record number of people are headed towards retirement in the next decade. Added to that dynamic is the fact that our elder loved ones are living well into their 90’s. The transition of wealth between generations is the largest our country has ever seen. Given these circumstances, it is a far too common scenario where a loved one has been taken advantage of by someone else, resulting in unwanted changes to their estate plans.

For example, a caretaker, sibling, child or other individual may have unduly influenced your loved one into leaving her entire estate to someone else. Maybe your loved one was suffering from dementia or some other cognitive or physical impairment, leaving her vulnerable to elder abuse. Whatever the specific circumstances, the result is often the same. One or more rightful heirs get written out of the estate or get a reduced inheritance. If this is the case for you, challenging a will or trust may be appropriate. The specific type of petition/law suit challenging a will or trust is called a contest. All contests are filed in probate court, where a probate judge will hear your case.

Before making any decisions, reach out to us and understand the legal process for how to contest a will in California. Let us help you determine whether you have grounds for contesting a trust. We will gladly take the time to discuss your options for saving your loved one’s estate and protecting your inheritance.