Will Contest Attorneys
Even if they have the best of intentions, an individual's last will and testament may become the cause of disputes and litigation. Heirs and beneficiaries may contest a wide range of issues arising from a will — even a properly drafted will.
At the St. Paul, Minnesota, law firm of Rodney J. Mason, Ltd., the attorneys counsel and represent clients in will contests. With more than 30 years of legal experience, founder Rodney J. Mason gives people an understanding of their options, including the costs and benefits of litigation. Clients in these matters include heirs, family members who were excluded from a will and non-profit organizations seeking a promised bequest.
Issues in Will Contests
Wills can be contested for a variety of reasons. The attorneys have handled cases arising from circumstances such as these:
- Will cannot be located
- An heir is disinherited or otherwise has disappointed expectations
- The signature on the will is a forgery
- Will was executed and signed by someone without the capacity to do so
- Will was a product of undue influence from someone who benefits to the exclusion of other heirs
- Will was a product of coercion by a person who would benefit from the will
- The language of the will is ambiguous
How an Attorney Can Help
The firm will gather the appropriate medical records, consult with experts and depose witnesses to argue that a disputed will should be considered valid or invalid. It is important to have a very strong case in will contests, as the court demands a high burden of proof to change a will. The firm has the experience and resources to bring or defend these cases effectively.
What Happens After Contesting a Will?
Many will contests settle before trial and significant decisions occur during negotiations rather than in the courtroom. This saves money for both sides. When persons named personal representatives in an earlier will go to trial and lose, they may still be awarded attorney's fees. If they succeed in a will contest, they may experience emotional turmoil because their win frequently comes at the expense of another family member. The firm's attorneys counsel clients on these and other possible outcomes of will contests.
Contact Us
To learn more about will contests, contact Rodney J. Mason, Ltd. The firm's lawyers serve clients in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area and beyond. Call 651-323-2548 or 877-389-5533 (toll free) to set up an appointment. Spanish- and German-speaking clients are encouraged to call.
