What’s required for a will in California?
All adults should have an estate plan that outlines what they want to happen with their assets when they pass away. A will is one option that’s available to do this. Because a will is a legal document that might need to be enforced by the court, it is critical to have it set up […]
Disinherited spouses in California can ask the courts for help
An inheritance can provide reminders of a person who has passed. These reminders can provide comfort. Yet, sometimes, reviewing a will or other estate planning documents can worsen the pain caused by a loved one’s passing. Spouses who spent decades in a marriage sometimes discover that their lifelong partner disinherited them, either by choosing to […]
Contesting a will
Challenging a will in court can be accomplished, but not for just any reason. Likewise, not every person has the legal standing to challenge the document. However, certain types of individuals are allowed this privilege in California. Executor A person who had been named as the executor of a prior will that was prepared by […]
Facts about the No-Contest Clause in California wills
A will is a legal document that contains many important provisions, one of which is the no-contest clause. This clause is typically designed to discourage disputes and costly litigation over the terms of the will. What does the no-contest clause do? The no-contest clause is designed to discourage beneficiaries from challenging the terms of wills. […]
Who can contest a will?
Disappointment with the terms of someone’s last will and testament might prompt you to contest the document’s legitimacy. You should not take the act of contesting a will in California lightly. You can only bring forward the legal challenge if you have legal standing to contest the will. You must also notify all other interested […]
How long do beneficiaries have to contest a will?
Courts see wills as the voice of the deceased issuing their last wishes. That’s the testator, the individual who wrote the will. Typically, California law supports the will. Anyone who argues the content of the will and its intent is contesting the will. Why contest a will? Individuals or entities will argue the will because […]
Facts about heirs-at-law contests
When a loved one dies in California, it is often difficult to deal with the estate. This can be especially true if there is a contest about who is the rightful heir. If you find yourself in this situation, knowing how to handle it can be critical. Who is an heir-at-law? An heir-at-law is a […]
What are the grounds for contesting a will in California?
When a decedent in California dies, the executor files a petition to probate the will. The petitioner must send notice that they filed the petition to probate the will to all heirs, devisees, executors and alternative executors of the decedent. If you have a legal reason to contest the will, then you need to object […]
Is contesting a will the right choice for you?
California residents who are left out of the will of a family member may find themselves distraught. Whether you were told you would be included in the will or it was just assumed that you would be, it can be a surprise to find out that you weren’t. It’s important to assess your individual situation […]
How a Lawyer Can Help Build Your Will
Developing a comprehensive and complete last will and testament is an essential part of a California estate plan. Your will can help distribute property in an effective manner according to your wishes. An Orange County estate planning lawyer from Fridley Law Firm can help you in building your will. What Can a Will Do? A will sets […]