At The Estate Lawyers, APC, our litigation team brings more than 150 collective years of courtroom experience to will contests and disputes across California. We focus exclusively on trust, probate, and elder law litigation, representing clients in probate courts throughout California.
Will contests are taken seriously by California courts because they often involve allegations of undue influence, lack of testamentary capacity, fraud, or manipulation of vulnerable individuals.
Many disputes also intersect with findings from Adult Protective Services, especially when concerns arise about caregiver pressure or financial exploitation near the end of a loved one’s life.
Families trust our firm because we combine courtroom strength with genuine care. As Jennifer Gómez shared, our team showed “a very high level of professionalism” and helped her family reach clarity after years of unresolved conflict. That balance matters when emotions are high and relationships are strained.
If you believe a will does not reflect your loved one’s true intentions, you do not have to face this process alone. We are here to guide you, protect your rights, and help you move forward with confidence.
What Is a Will Contest and Why It Matters in California
A will contest is a legal challenge that asks a California probate court to determine whether a will is valid.
These cases arise when family members believe a will does not reflect a loved one’s true intentions. Courts allow will contests to protect individuals from manipulation, fraud, and unfair pressure, especially during periods of illness or cognitive decline.
Probate judges carefully review medical records, witness testimony, financial activity, and the circumstances surrounding the creation of the will before deciding whether it should be upheld.
Will contests matter because they protect fairness and dignity. They help make sure that estates are distributed according to genuine intent, not coercion or deception. These disputes often arise during times of grief, when emotions are already high and family relationships are strained.
If you have concerns about how a will was created or changed, seeking clarity can bring relief and direction. We are here to help you understand your options and protect what your loved one intended with care and confidence.
Our Will Contest Services in California
- Will contests
- Inheritance disputes
- Undue influence litigation
- Lack of testamentary capacity claims
- Fraud and forgery claims
- Improper execution challenges
- Conservatorship Claims
- Executor misconduct litigation
- Elder financial abuse cases
- Breach of Fiduciary Duties
- Representation in all California probate courts
Trusted by Estate Planning Professionals & Families
When Trusts & Estates Face Disputes
Contact UsWhy Families Trust Our Firm
Families across California describe us as professional, compassionate, and deeply trustworthy during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
“Top-notch litigators and some of the most caring and compassionate people you will meet.” -Daniel Rodriguez
Clients trust us to fight for the truth while treating families with respect and care throughout the process.
“They were able to resolve issues that had gone on for years.” – Jennifer Gómez
Families often come to us after long delays, and they appreciate our ability to bring clarity and progress to stalled cases.
“The best of the best. I would not hesitate to send a family member to them.” – Craig Robinson
Clients feel confident referring us to others because they trust our experience and steady guidance in high conflict disputes.
“Clear, honest, and incredibly professional.” – Patricia Patti
People value our straightforward explanations and consistent communication during stressful probate proceedings.
When the outcome matters and emotions run high, families rely on our team for steady support and strong advocacy. We are here to help you move forward with confidence.
Common Grounds for Contesting a Will in California
In California, a will may be contested for several reasons. Common concerns include:
- Lack of testamentary capacity
- Undue influence by a caregiver or family member
- Fraud
- Forgery
- Improper signing and witnessing.
These issues often surface during times of grief and family tension. Seeking clarity does not mean creating conflict. It means protecting the truth and honoring what your loved one genuinely intended. We are here to help you evaluate your concerns with care and confidence.
About The Estate Lawyers, APC
The Estate Lawyers, APC is a premier litigation firm serving families throughout California in high-conflict will contests and inheritance disputes.
Since 2005, our practice has focused exclusively on trust, probate, and elder law litigation. Our attorneys bring more than 150 collective years of courtroom experience and include board professionals who are trusted to handle complex cases with care and precision.
We are known for our ability to step in when disputes escalate or when families believe a loved one was manipulated or taken advantage of. Our team regularly appears in probate courts across Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Riverside, Ventura, and San Bernardino.
Local judges and opposing counsel recognize our preparation, clarity, and steady approach in contested matters where the outcome truly matters.
Clients value not only our legal skill, but also the way we guide them through difficult decisions. We take time to explain the process, listen to concerns, and protect the dignity of everyone involved. Our firm also maintains strong ties to local communities through professional associations and chambers of commerce across California.
When you need experienced litigators who understand both the legal and human sides of a will contest, we are here to support you and help you move forward with confidence.
What Happens During a California Will Contest
A will contest starts in California probate court when someone files a petition challenging a will. The court first confirms the person filing has legal standing (typically a beneficiary or an heir who would inherit if the will is invalid).
If the case moves forward, both sides gather and present evidence, often medical records, financial documents, witness testimony, and communications, to evaluate issues like lack of capacity, undue influence, fraud, or coercion. In some cases, probate investigator or Adult Protective Services records may also be relevant.
Most contests involve formal discovery (document requests, depositions, and professional opinions). Filing fees are commonly about $465–$500 in many California counties, and the case may resolve through settlement or proceed to a hearing or trial.
Because these disputes are often emotional and high-stakes, clear legal guidance can help you understand your options and protect your position.
Local Resources We Work With In California
- Los Angeles Superior Court Probate Division
- Orange County Superior Court Probate Division
- San Diego Superior Court Probate Division
- Riverside County Probate Court
- Ventura County Probate Court
- San Bernardino County Probate Court
- Los Angeles County Adult Protective Services
- Orange County Adult Protective Services
- San Diego County Adult Protective Services
- Riverside County Adult Protective Services
- Ventura County Adult Protective Services
- San Bernardino County Adult Protective Services
- Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
- Orange County Business Council
- San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce
- Riverside Chamber of Commerce
- Ventura Chamber of Commerce
- General California probate court filing fee schedules
Speak With a California Will Contest Attorney Today
You deserve clarity when questions arise about a loved one’s will. If something does not feel right, taking action can help protect the truth and prevent further harm. Our team is here to listen, explain your options, and guide you through the process with care and confidence.
When you are ready, we will stand with you and help you move forward with steady support and experienced advocacy. Contact us to schedule a consultation and take the next step with peace of mind.