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5 Reasons to Hire a Lawyer When Family Disputes Arise After Death

distraught man sitting on bed

Losing a loved one is a profoundly emotional and challenging time. Unfortunately, this period of grief can sometimes be further complicated by disputes over the deceased’s estate. Trust disputes and probate issues can arise, leading to significant conflict among family members. In such situations, having an experienced attorney by your side is crucial. Here are five compelling reasons to hire a lawyer when family disputes arise after death.

1. Expertise in Complex Probate and Trust Laws

Probate and trust laws can be incredibly complex and vary significantly from state to state. Navigating these legal waters without professional guidance can be overwhelming and lead to costly mistakes. An experienced attorney like Susan B. Geffen specializes in trust litigation and has the in-depth knowledge needed to handle these intricate legal matters effectively.

  • Understanding Legal Jargon: Probate and trust documents are often filled with legal jargon that can be difficult for laypersons to understand. A lawyer can interpret these documents and ensure that you fully comprehend their implications.
  • State-Specific Laws: Trust and probate laws differ from state to state. An attorney familiar with the local laws in Los Angeles can provide tailored advice and representation.

2. Preventing and Resolving Family Conflicts

Emotions run high after the death of a loved one, and family members may have conflicting interests or interpretations of the deceased’s wishes. A lawyer can serve as a neutral third party to help mediate disputes and find amicable solutions.

  • Mediation Services: Attorneys can offer mediation services to resolve disputes without the need for litigation, preserving family relationships and reducing stress.
  • Objective Perspective: Lawyers provide an objective perspective, focusing on legal facts rather than emotional arguments, which can help de-escalate conflicts.

3. Ensuring Fair Distribution of Assets

Trust disputes often arise from disagreements over the distribution of assets. A lawyer can help ensure that the distribution is carried out fairly and according to the law, as well as the deceased’s wishes.

  • Accurate Valuation of Assets: Attorneys can help accurately value the estate’s assets, ensuring that all beneficiaries receive their fair share.
  • Protecting Beneficiary Rights: A lawyer will advocate for your rights as a beneficiary, ensuring that you receive what you are entitled to under the will or trust.

4. Navigating the Probate Process Efficiently

The probate process can be lengthy and complicated, involving numerous steps such as validating the will, appraising the estate, paying debts, and distributing assets. A lawyer can guide you through this process efficiently, saving time and reducing stress.

  • Paperwork and Filings: Lawyers handle all necessary paperwork and filings, ensuring that deadlines are met and legal requirements are fulfilled.
  • Managing Creditors: An attorney can also manage claims from creditors against the estate, protecting the estate’s value and ensuring that valid debts are paid appropriately.

5. Protecting Against Legal Challenges

When disputes escalate, they can lead to legal challenges against the estate or trust. Having a lawyer on your side ensures that you are prepared to defend against these challenges effectively.

  • Litigation Support: If disputes cannot be resolved through mediation, an attorney like Susan B. Geffen provides robust litigation support, representing your interests in court.
  • Minimizing Legal Risks: A lawyer helps minimize legal risks by ensuring that all actions taken comply with the law, reducing the likelihood of successful challenges.

Call Susan B. Geffen in LA for Legal Resolution After a Family Death

When a dispute arises concerning probate or trust issues, you need the sound and compassionate services of Los Angeles trust litigation attorney Susan B. Geffen. Her expertise, objective mediation, and strong advocacy can help you navigate these challenging times, ensuring a fair and legal resolution to family disputes after the death of a loved one.

Posted on behalf of Susan B. Geffen

2447 Pacific Coast Hwy #234
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Phone: (800) 285-2659
Email:

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Susan Geffen saved my life! An elderly relative was the victim of lottery fraud and was acting as the neighborhood ATM, in total over $200,000. Her legal expertise, compassion, and expertise in geriatrics guided the family through a successful process of care management and understanding. At all times the victim and the family trusted Susan and received compassionate support. Her referrals to other professionals were stellar and her reputation among her peers is impeccable. I recommend her without qualification.

Irene Z., Newport Beach

I could have searched the country and not have found a more capable and qualified person.

Debbie K., Moreno Valley, CA

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Our Clients Reviews

Susan Geffen saved my life! An elderly relative was the victim of lottery fraud and was acting as the neighborhood ATM, in total over $200,000. Her legal expertise, compassion, and expertise in geriatrics guided the family through a successful process of care management and understanding. At all times the victim and the family trusted Susan and received compassionate support. Her referrals to other professionals were stellar and her reputation among her peers is impeccable. I recommend her without qualification.
Irene Z., Newport Beach
After moving my 88 year old mom from Chicago to California, I was looking for a competent attorney to review and make some minor changes to her living trust. Susan B. Geffen has a wonderful “desk side” manner with her elderly clients and even helped my mom recover $3,000 that her prior attorney in Chicago refused to release from escrow of the sale of her home 2 years ago. I would highly recommend Susan B Geffen’s services to anyone dealing with elderly parents.
D’Marie C., Hermosa Beach, CA
My parents and I retained Susan Geffen’s legal services to navigate through the Medi-Cal process and to preserve my parent’s assets. The process was long and hard, but Susan hung in there with us, even when my parents seemed reluctant and indecisive. Susan showed her professionalism and concern for the elderly by continuing to provide legal services and guidance without payment during a period between the two phases of our journey. I would recommend Susan to anyone in need of legal services relating to the elderly and elder care.
Rick Y., Torrance, CA
When my wife of 53 years suddenly became terminally ill, I asked Susan B. Geffen to provide assistance with new wills and trust documents on short notice. She worked diligently and completed the requisite documents in record time. She also provided in-valuable advice concerning bequests and gathering information for estate tax filings.
Steve K., Rancho Palos Verdes
I highly recommend her for estate planning and elder law questions.
Mike A., Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
I could have searched the country and not have found a more capable and qualified person.
Debbie K., Moreno Valley, CA
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