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Contesting a Will: When and Why to Seek Legal Help

Losing a loved one is always difficult, but it can be especially painful when disputes arise over the distribution of their estate. When a will is contested, it means that one or more beneficiaries are disputing the validity of the will or its terms. If you believe that a will is unfair or incorrect, it is important to seek legal help. At Rubin Lewis O’Brien, we have a dedicated litigation team with years of experience in handling contested wills. 

There are a number of reasons why someone might contest a will. One of the most common reasons is that the testator (the person who made the will) did not have the mental capacity to make a will. Other common reasons for contesting a will include: 

  • Undue influence: If the testator was coerced or influenced by someone to make the will in a certain way, it may be invalid. 
  • Fraud: If someone forged the testator’s signature or made changes to the will without their knowledge or consent, the will may be invalid. 
  • Lack of proper execution: In order for a will to be valid, it must be signed and witnessed according to specific legal requirements. If these requirements were not met, the will may be invalid. 

If you believe that a will is invalid or unfair, it is important to seek legal help as soon as possible. Time limits apply to contesting a will, so it is best to act quickly. At Rubin Lewis O’Brien, we offer free consultations to help you understand your options and decide on the best course of action. 

Contesting a will can be a complex and emotional process, but our experienced litigation team is here to help. We will work closely with you to understand your concerns and develop a strategy that meets your needs. We understand that every case is unique, and we will tailor our approach to ensure that you get the best possible outcome. 

Call us on 01633 867 000,  or email Partner and Head of Litigation, Patrick Howarth on patrick.howarth@rlo.law 

 

 

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