Westwood Estate Litigation Lawyer

Westwood Estate Litigation Attorney

When a family member or loved one passes, the distress of their death can be worsened for those left behind when disputes about the estate arise. Conflicts over estates can cause intense frustration and confusion for those involved. Hiring an experienced Westwood estate litigation lawyer can help resolve these conflicts. At Hinojosa & Forer LLP, estate litigation resolution is a core part of our practice. Discover why you can trust us to help settle your estate dispute.

Choose Hinojosa & Forer LLP for Superior Litigation Aid

With almost 80 years of combined estate litigation experience, the lawyers at our firm have extensive knowledge of California estate law. This allows them to guide you through the process of resolving estate disputes efficiently and effectively. Our team also understands how sensitive these kinds of cases may be, which is why we are prepared to offer personalized, compassionate aid throughout the process.

What Is Considered an Estate in California?

In California, the term “estate” is used to describe the entirety of an individual’s assets. An individual’s estate refers to all of the belongings and property they owned at the time of their passing. An estate can include both tangible and intangible assets. These are some examples of assets or property that might be part of someone’s estate:

• Vehicles
• Real estate
• Stocks and investments
• Bank accounts
• Jewelry or valuable personal property
• Businesses
• Retirement savings accounts

When someone dies in Westwood, California, there are laws that determine what will happen to their estate and who will inherit their property and assets. If the decedent established a legal estate plan or a will before passing, their property will be distributed according to their wishes as outlined in the documents. An estate planning attorney can help establish a legally valid estate plan.

If someone dies without an estate plan, they are considered to be intestate. The process for distributing an intestate person’s possessions is significantly more complex than determining what will happen to the assets of someone who has a legally established estate plan. In the event someone dies intestate, their family will face California probate. The deceased individual’s property will be distributed according to California intestate succession laws.

When Should You Contact a Westwood Estate Litigation Lawyer?

If you’re dealing with conflicts or disagreements over a deceased loved one’s estate, it’s time to contact an experienced estate litigation lawyer. The legal team at Hinojosa & Forer LLP can help you navigate the complexities of California estate law. We can guide you to a resolution out of court or defend your position in court if necessary. When you work with us, we will strive to help you settle your dispute in a timely manner while honoring the memory of the deceased.

There are many reasons for estate litigation to become necessary. Here are a few examples of situations that might be the cause of conflict over an estate:

• You feel the distribution of a loved one’s property is not being executed according to their wishes as outlined in their legal will.
• You believe the deceased was not of sound mind when they established their estate plan, or they were coerced into designating property unfairly or unjustly in another beneficiary else’s favor.
• You suspect the legal documents in a loved one’s estate are fraudulent or that their signature was forged.

If any of these situations seem similar to your dispute over a loved one’s estates, or if you’re struggling with conflicts about an estate for another reason, contact Hinojosa & Forer LLP for a consultation. We will review your case and work with you to determine the right course of action for attempting to resolve the dispute in your favor and according to your loved one’s wishes.

Estate Planning Attorney FAQs

Q: What Is a Plaintiff’s Attorney Called?

A: A plaintiff’s attorney is the lawyer representing the individual or legal entity who is filing suit against someone else. The individual or legal entity being sued is the defendant, and their legal counsel is called the defendant’s attorney or defense attorney. Hinojosa & Forer LLP have decades of combined experience on both sides in estate litigation cases. Whether you’re the plaintiff or the defendant, trust us to be your attorney and help you settle your estate dispute.

Q: What Exactly Does a Litigator Do?

A: Litigation is the process of taking legal action or filing a legal claim to resolve a dispute. A litigator is a lawyer who represents an individual or legal entity involved in the claim. The litigator takes legal action to protect the interests of their client and often negotiates on their behalf in court. A litigator’s goal is for the claim to be resolved in the client’s favor. For instance, a trust litigation attorney works to hold trustees accountable when they breach their duty.

Q: What Is the Difference Between a Litigator and a Lawyer?

A: The term lawyer generally describes a person who is licensed to practice the law professionally. A litigator is a specific type of lawyer who represents individuals or legal entities involved in legal claims. While all litigators are lawyers, every lawyer might not be a litigator. When choosing a lawyer to represent you in a civil legal claim, it’s important to hire a lawyer who has experience as a litigator, like the lawyers at Hinojosa & Forer LLP.

Q: Is a Litigator a Prosecutor?

A: No, a litigator is not a prosecutor. While they are both different kinds of lawyers, a prosecutor is only involved in criminal cases, not civil ones. A prosecutor would be the party working to prove that a defendant is guilty of a criminal act. A litigator represents a party involved in a civil legal claim and represents their interests. Estate disputes are an example of a civil legal claim.

Turn to Hinojosa & Forer LLP for Estate Litigation Representation

Experiencing the death of someone you love or care about is difficult enough without the stress of a conflict arising. Your healing process can begin sooner when your conflict is resolved and put behind you. Our team of estate lawyers at Hinojosa & Forer LLP holds a wealth of experience representing clients in estate litigation cases. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and allow us to help you move forward.