Rockland County Will Contest Attorney
When inheritance distribution is significantly disproportionate or distribution is to an unexpected beneficiary, there are often questions raised as to the validity of the will. At The Law Offices of Hugh Janow, we represent beneficiaries, executors, and others when resolving will contests following the death of a loved one.
Contact us in our Pearl River, New York, office to schedule an initial consultation with an experienced probate lawyer.
Probate and estate administration matters, including will contests and other estate litigation, are handled in the Surrogate's Court (also known as Probate Court). Attorney Hugh Janow is experienced with the practice and procedure of this court. He guides clients through the process of resolving will disputes with a focus on having the matter resolved efficiently and uncovering the true intentions of the decedent.
Problems with the Will
Beneficiaries who were omitted from the will and others with interests in the estate may raise concerns with the state of mind of the decedent at the time the will was created or the manner in which the will was drafted:
- Undue influence: Was significant influence given to an individual by a power of attorney or other person who played an important role in the decedent's life at the time the will was drafted? Was the decedent vulnerable to manipulation or undue influence?
- Duress: Was the decedent vulnerable to duress by an overbearing or overpowering individual? For example, did the decedent fear a caretaker would stop providing care if the will did not name the caretaker as a primary beneficiary?
- Fraud or forgery: Was the will (or codicil) actually created by the decedent or by someone else (a family member, power of attorney, or other individual)?
- Lack of capacity: Did the decedent have the state of mind at the time the will was drafted? Had a mental illness or disease progressed to such a stage that the decedent lacked the mental capacity to convey his/her true wishes at the time the will was prepared and signed?
If you have concerns regarding the validity of a will or need representation in defending against a will contest, the Law Offices of Hugh Janow can provide the advice and assistance you need. Contact our experienced will contest lawyer to discuss your case.
