How to Deal With a Contested Will and Other Probate Problems
After a deceased person's will has been read, family members may object to the distribution of property, assets and trusts. In these cases, having a lawyer who is well versed in probate litigation is essential to help guide a family through settling the estate peacefully and fairly.
It is difficult for families to deal with the passing of one of their loved ones ... more so when two or more people believe that they were promised Grandpa's old Thunderbird or Mom's engagement ring.
We help families and their executors and trustees sort out the difficult parts of estate litigation. In many situations these things can be resolved with negotiation and compromise on the part of both parties. Other times, it will involve going to probate court where a final ruling will be made.
We work with trustees and their families to resolve the following issues:
- Will and trust disputes: Situations where a family member is disputing or challenging a will or trust, endeavoring to set aside a will, or questioning an inheritance or disinheritance
- Blended family disputes: Where family members from different marriages of the decedent disagree on fair distribution of the decedent's property
- Determination of family rights: The rights of a decedent's heirs and their descendants and family members.
- Removal of a trustee: When the beneficiary of a trust or will feels unfairly treated and petitions to have the trustee removed from their position of authority
- Sale of estate or trust assets: Selling property or other assets for the decedent's family
Viewing a potential client's disputed will or trust in advance of an initial consultation helps us to have a better understanding of their situation and enables us to offer sound advice and a directed course of action.
Contesting a Will in Michigan
If you feel that you have been treated unfairly in the distribution of a decedent's property, or if you are the trustee or executor of a will and have been accused of unfair bias, contact our attorneys for help in settling this matter efficiently and effectively. We work with forensic accountants, when necessary, to track the patterns of distribution in contested trust and will situations.
We are seasoned estate litigation lawyers in Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas. By taking a limited number of cases, we are able to focus on a client's problem and deliver effective solutions, whether that is to come to an agreement with the opposing party or to go to trial.
Contact Us
If you or your business is involved in a dispute involving disputed wills or trusts contact Kuiper Orlebeke. Our office is conveniently located next to the Amway Hotel and Rosa Parks Circle. To contact an attorney, call 616.454.3700 or 866.719.4654.
