We focus on will contest and estate litigation law in Iowa and this expertise means we’re better equipped to serve you. Below we offer a brief description of each area of law so you can better understand what we do to help clients. Please read below to learn more or call 319.240.7146 to speak with us immediately.
Will Contest
A will contest is the formal objection of a will’s validity. This most often occurs when the objector doubts the validity of the will or has concerns that it does not actually reflect the testator, or person who made the will. If you’re having any problems with the way a will is being executed, contact one of our attorneys at 319.240.7146 to learn more about what you can do. We’ll discuss your situation and help you find the best course of action.
Estate Litigation
The Waterloo, Iowa estate lawyers focus on estate inheritances, but can help in a variety of other areas as well. Our team will help you pursue your legal right to inheritance in the most efficient way possible. This type of litigation can be difficult to handle within your family because of the potential for emotional struggles, so let us work on your behalf to get what you deserve.
Common Questions
Who can contest a will or estate documents?
In order to legally contest these legal documents in the state of Iowa, you must have some connection to the will or be affected by its contents. This may mean that you were named in the will, but you feel that your inheritance should be different. It could also mean that you weren’t named at all but feel that you have reason to be in the will.
What are valid reasons for pursuing legal action?
Potential beneficiaries may object for a variety of reasons including fraud, undue influence and loss of mental capacity.
Fraud: This may have occurred if the testator was presented with false information that motivated him or her to change the will.
Undue Influence: If a trusted source convinces the testator to change the will to benefit him, this could be considered undue influence. In this case, one must prove that the will and testament was changed according to someone else’s intent.
Loss of Mental Capacity: If the testator made changes to the documents at a time when he or she was not legally and mentally able to make such decisions, it may be contested on grounds of Loss of Mental Capacity.
What should I do if I’m concerned about a will or estate inheritance?
If you’re doubting the validity of a will for any reason, you should speak with Corey Lorenzen and his team of estate litigation and will contest attorneys in Iowa at Beecher Law Firm immediately. They can review you situation during an initial consultation and determine what legal action may be necessary.