St. Louis Will Contests Lawyer

A will is an important document that instructs a person’s loved ones on how to distribute his or her property after he or she dies. Sometimes, a friend or family member may want to contest or dispute the terms of the will. 

Certain individuals are allowed to file will contests in Missouri—and if you find yourself in this situation, you need an attorney from TdD Attorneys at Law LLC on your side. Our estate planning lawyers in St. Louis will work to prove your claim and help obtain the results that you deserve.

Why Choose TdD Attorneys at Law LLC?

• Our firm has over 30 years of experience in estate planning matters. We know what it takes to create a valid will and can help you prove your will contest.
• We believe that a reasonable settlement is better than prolonged litigation. Our firm will work tirelessly to settle your matter quickly while fighting for the best possible outcome. 
• We offer our estate planning and will contest services at a reasonable price. Our firm will work with you to discuss your needs and create a plan that works best for you.

What Are the Requirements for a Legal Will in Missouri?

In Missouri, a will is legally valid only when it is submitted in writing and signed by two witnesses and the testator, or the person making the will. The testator must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind at the time that the will was created.

If you believe a will is not legally valid, you can pursue a will contest in probate court. When you file a will contest, you will need to prove that the will is invalid due to certain legal grounds. These grounds may include: 

• Fraud
• Revocation
• Undue influence or coercion
• A lack of witnesses
• A lack of sound mind or competence. 

How to Contest a St. Louis Will

To contest a will in Missouri, you must be an interested person. In other words, you must stand to benefit from the will if your challenge is successful. Usually, interested people include legal heirs and current or former beneficiaries. 

For example, say that you suspect that your parent was coerced into creating a new version of the will that no longer names you as a beneficiary. As you were named as a beneficiary under a previous version, you could file a contest to be added back into the will.

A will contest must be filed within six months from the time the will is accepted or rejected by the probate court, or six months after the court grants authority to the estate’s administrator. To ensure that the claim is filed in time, speak to a lawyer from TdD Attorneys at Law LLC as soon as possible.

Contact a St. Louis Will Contest Attorney

If you are seeking to contest a will in Missouri, you need an attorney on your side. The lawyers at TdD Attorneys at Law LLC can fight for the best possible outcome on your behalf, guiding you through each stage of the process. Contact us today at (314) 276-1318 to schedule your free case consultation with a St. Louis will contest attorney.