Law Library Articles
Top 10 Wills Articles in the LegalMatch Law Library
When Howard Hughes died, a gas station attendant came forward with a handwritten document he claimed was Hughes’s will. The will left the attendant over $150 million dollars and split the rest between various charities and organizations. Hughes was known to be an eccentric recluse when he died so the story of how the station attendant helped drive a disheveled and weak Hughes back to Las Vegas one night and a mysterious man leaving the will with the attendant afterwards sounded plausible to many people.
However, the Nevada courts had a different idea and declared the will a forgery and split up Hughes’s fortune between his 22 cousins. For good reason, there are many legal requirements in place before a will can be declared authentic. As a starting point to understanding how wills work, the LegalMatch Law Library has compiled a list of the Top 10 Articles on Wills.
1. Will Contest Lawyers
A will contest lawyer can help you challenge the validity of a will in court. These disputes often arise when a family member believes the will is fraudulent or was created under duress. An attorney can explain your rights and represent you in the legal process.
2. What to Do If You Have Been Disinherited
Being disinherited means you were intentionally left out of a will. If you find yourself in this situation, you may have options to challenge the decision. This article explains the steps you can take and when a disinheritance might be considered unlawful.
3. Trust Dispute Lawyers
Disputes over a trust can be just as contentious as those involving a will. A trust dispute lawyer handles cases where there are disagreements about how a trust is being managed. They can help beneficiaries hold a trustee accountable for their actions.
4. Top 5 Types of Documents & Evidence to Gather for Your Contested Wills or Probate Case
When you contest a will, you need to provide evidence to support your claim. This can include documents like medical records, witness statements, and different versions of the will. Being organized with your paperwork can strengthen your case.
5. Meaning of Personal Property in Wills
A will often distinguishes between real property and personal property. Personal property generally includes all of your moveable belongings, like jewelry, furniture, and vehicles. This article clarifies what is included in this category for estate planning purposes.
6. Transferring a Business in a Will
You can use your will to transfer ownership of your business to a chosen successor. This requires careful planning to ensure a smooth transition. The article discusses how to include your business in your will and avoid potential conflicts.
7. What Is a Will Attorney?
A will attorney is a lawyer who helps people create and manage their last will and testament. They can help you draft the document to ensure it is legally valid. They also assist with any disputes that may arise after a person’s death.
8. Will Dispute Attorneys
If you need to challenge or defend a will, a will dispute attorney can provide legal help. These lawyers are experienced in the court procedures for these types of cases. They can advise you on the strength of your position and advocate for you.
9. Healthcare Proxy
A healthcare proxy is a document that lets you appoint someone to make medical decisions for you if you cannot. This person, your agent, can speak on your behalf about your treatment preferences. It is an important part of planning for your future health care.
10. Last Will Lawyers
A last will lawyer helps you create the legal document that outlines your final wishes. They ensure your property is distributed to the correct people. Hiring a lawyer for this purpose can provide peace of mind for you and your family.
