Depending on when a will was written there are often questions or disputes over the estate and final wishes of the family member who passed away. Perhaps the will document is 30 years old and didn’t account for a new business or updated beneficiaries. Or maybe a will was drafted 30 days ago, but the person had Alzheimer’s disease.
In either circumstance, litigation will likely be the end result.
Chicago elder law firm Peck Ritchey, LLC handles disputed accountings, recovery of assets, claims, heirship disputes, and scores of other potential estate or guardianship litigation. The attorneys of Peck Ritchey, LLC are recognized leaders in estate, trust and guardianship litigation. For example, Kerry Peck was asked by the Illinois Institute of Continuing Legal Education to author chapters on Will Contests and Guardianship.
What can you expect when contesting a will?
Once you hire a litigation attorney, he or she files the appropriate paperwork. Then in discovery your attorney will gather information to determine the validity of the dispute; this can include depositions and subpoenas for various documents.
There are several possible outcomes of a will contest, including going to trial, settling out of court, having the case dismissed or voluntarily withdrawn. Having an experienced litigation lawyer on your side is essential to help ensure your loved one’s final wishes are met.
If you are questioning any aspect of your family member’s will, contact a Chicago litigation lawyer at Peck Ritchey, LLC for a complementary 30 minute consultation at (855) 328-5787.