What Happens When Someone Contests a Will in Pennsylvania?

Everyone should create a well-rounded estate plan before passing on. Doing so can help ensure that their assets are distributed according to their wishes, and also that they are well taken care of while they are alive. That being said, when someone writes a will, they will appoint an executor who is in charge of ensuring that their assets are distributed to beneficiaries according to their wishes upon their passing. While in most cases, this process goes smoothly and without concern, there are times where beneficiaries will believe that the will is invalid in some way, and will, as a result, contest the will. This means that they do not believe that the will truly is in accordance with their loved one’s wishes. Please continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable Pennsylvania estate administration attorney to learn more about some of the reasons for contesting a will, what happens when someone contests a will, and how our firm can guide you through every step of the process ahead. Here are some of the questions you may have:

Why would someone want to contest a will?

There are various reasons why someone would want to contest a will, though in most cases, this happens because one or more family members believe they are being deprived of their fair share on the grounds of fraud or deception. Some of the most common reasons why someone would contest a will are as follows:

• The will contains non-specific language that leaves who will inherit certain assets up for debate.
• One or more beneficiaries believe that the will was created fraudulently, thereby rendering it invalid.
• One or more beneficiaries can prove that the decedent was incapacitated when he or she wrote his or her will.
• One or more beneficiaries have reason to believe that the decedent was either coerced or manipulated into writing certain terms in their will.
• One or more beneficiaries suspect or have proof that the decedent was bribed to unfairly give one or more beneficiaries certain assets.

How can an attorney help me contest a will?

If you are looking to contest a will, you need an experienced attorney who knows the ins and outs of the estate litigation process who can work to ensure that your argument is heard. We will work to obtain all of the evidence needed to prove your case, and from there, work to obtain a favorable outcome on behalf of you and your fellow beneficiaries. If you have any additional questions, give us a call today.

CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED PENNSYLVANIA FIRM

Whether you are dealing with matters involving estate planning, estate administration, or elder law, you need a legal team that you can feel confident will represent your best interests, every step of the way. We are that legal team. Contact Heritage Elder Law & Estate Planning today so we can get started.