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What are the major classes of estate disputes?

On Behalf of | Feb 23, 2022 | Estate Litigation |

When someone dies, interpersonal conflicts sometimes surface. As estate planning differences develop, the arguments are often heart-wrenching.

The best way of avoiding estate battles is by making sure asset planning is in proper order. Hire a professional to check that essential legalese is present.

Will disputes

Last wills and testaments need to use clear and concise language. When they do not, the details can become subject to interpretation. Beneficiaries may argue one intention, whereas another inheritor argues the opposite. Should conflicting viewpoints clash, an executor must know how to handle sticky situations.

Trust disputes

These dustups can be like those involving wills. Fuzzy directives cause severe headaches. Untangling what should happen requires someone with estate planning knowledge. There could be an allegation of unsound mind skewing the legality of the trust. Some may feel coercion explains the details of a contract. Proof of either of these scenarios is necessary to convince a judge during a trial.

Kinship disputes

Those who believe themselves to be long-lost relatives sometimes appear after someone dies. Verifying whether such individuals have valid claims can be tricky. Professional help might be necessary for making this happen.

Fiduciary disputes

Accounting hiccups create all types of chaos. There is sometimes an innocent explanation. In other cases, nefarious intentions are at play. Figuring out which scenario is present requires more than amateur sleuthing.

Estate planning is a complicated process involving a host of moving parts. If done improperly, it usually triggers a legal nightmare. Hire the right person to convey after-death intentions in writing.