Atlanta Last Will & Testament Attorney

How Do I Contest a Will?

While varying by state, the method of contesting the outcome of a will is determined by probate law. Typically, wills can only be contested by spouses, children, or individuals named in the current will or a previous will. The process begins when an individual, through legal representation, informs the courts that they believe there is a problem in the will.

Four primary reasons inform a contest of a will: 

• How the will is signed and witnessed
• The mental capacity of the testator at the time of the signing
• Undue influence by a caretaker or other party who has taken day-to-day control of assets
• Outright will fraud

This places the utmost emphasis on hiring proper legal counsel to facilitate and bear witness to the formulation of a will, as it will bind the document in a stronger legal context. As you can see by the four reasons listed above, these are largely removed as questions when working with a qualified Atlanta last will and testament lawyer.

Call (678) 257-3332 or complete our form to speak with our last will and testament lawyers in Atlanta at Meyring Law Firm to get started protecting your legacy!

Call an Atlanta Last Will Lawyer

Robert Meyring can support a will that is presented to the probate court when someone challenges it. He can also contest wills for clients who need to challenge the validity of questionable documents. As a firm experienced in last will and testaments, we are dedicated to helping our clients with will challenges in the probate court and disputes over intestate estates, known as estate litigation. We proudly help families throughout Atlanta with estate disputes through negotiation, mediation, and ultimately litigation when necessary.

What Happens If I Die Without A Will?

If you happen to die in the absence of a will, your property will be distributed based on Georgia’s intestacy laws, which give your property to relatives based on how close they are to you. For example, if you do not have a spouse or children, your grandchildren or parents will receive your property. With the right attorney for your last will and testament, you can make sure that your property is accurately distributed to the beneficiaries you have selected.  

Call (678) 257-3332 if you’re ready to speak to a skillfull last will lawyer in Atlanta at Meyring Law Firm about drafting a legally sound last will and testament that addresses your wishes and needs.

What Is The Difference Between Wills & Trusts?

You’ve likely heard the terms wills and trusts used almost interchangeably, but there are distinct differences between the two. As discussed, a will is a written document that has been signed and witnessed, demonstrating how your property will be distributed once you pass away; it also can outline the guardianship of children. A will also provides a sense of security, knowing that your affairs will be handled according to your own decisions and not left to chance or the default laws of intestacy in Georgia. By creating a will, you take control of your legacy and help alleviate the burden on your loved ones during an already difficult time.

A trust, however, establishes a lifetime plan to manage property actively for its duration of use. Trusts must be actively funded and set up to control the assets placed within them, while a will passes assets along and essentially moves on. Depending on the circumstances, such as who is the recipient of your assets after your passing and whether you want the management of assets, you can determine which is the right avenue for your estate. The trust will involve far more upfront effort and expense but has a more dynamic set of options to handle your assets after your passing, so it depends on what assets you have at the time of your passing.

Speak with a seasoned Atlanta last will lawyer for experienced advice on creating your last week and testament.