When a loved one dies, their will is a vital record that details where their wealth and property will be allocated to and which beneficiaries.
However, questions concerning the will’s legality can arise, particularly if there are allegations of infirmity or undue influence on the testifying party (the person creating the will). Questioning a will for these reasons is a delicate and complex affair requiring a thorough grasp of probate law and legal skills.
In this blog, we shall define incapacity and undue influence, the reasons for contesting a will on these grounds, and the function of a Las Vegas probate lawyer in such circumstances.
Recognizing Incapacity and Undue Influence
Incapacity means the testator’s psychological state when making or signing the will. For the written document to be legitimate, the testator must have the mental ability to comprehend the type and size of their assets, the implications of their acts, and the names of their beneficiaries. This condition for mental capacity is critical in guaranteeing the testator makes judgments independently and without undue influence.
Undue Influence arises when someone pressures or controls the person who signed the document into acting in ways that counter theories. It might include threats, coercion, seclusion, or exploiting the testator’s frailty, including old age or emotional suffering.
Reasons to Contest a Will Due to Incapacity or Undue Influence
Questioning a will based on incompetence or undue influence is a sensitive affair. Still, it may be required to safeguard the legitimate beneficiaries and respect the authenticity of the testator’s real objectives. Here are some frequent motivations for launching such a challenge:
Fear of Psychological Impairment: If there are concerns regarding the testator’s psychological state making the will, this might be grounds for worry. Symptoms of mental impairment, which include memory loss or Alzheimer’s, may raise issues about whether the testator had the mental ability to make sensible estate decisions.
Sudden Changes in the Will: If the main points of the will vary significantly from earlier versions or previously indicated objectives, this may suggest the existence of undue influence. Significant alterations might indicate that someone pressured the testator into changing what they wanted despite their real preferences.
Isolation and direction: Evidence of the testator’s isolation from close family and friends or being under a specific individual’s direction may generate undue influence concerns. Isolation may make it difficult for the testator to seek counsel or aid, leaving them more open to exploitation.
Beneficiary Designations That Are Unusual or Unexpected: Odd or unforeseen beneficiary designations in a will might also be a red signal. For instance, if an immediate relative is unexpectedly left out in favor of someone without prior contact with the testator, this may invite additional examination.
Witness Testimony: Testimony from eyewitnesses who met with the testator during the moment of the will’s writing might be critical in determining the testator’s mental state and if undue influence was present.
A Las Vegas Probate Lawyer’s Role
When contesting a will on the grounds of incompetence or undue influence, it is critical to obtain the advice of an experienced Las Vegas probate lawyer. Here’s how a probate lawyer can help:
Legal Knowledge: A probate lawyer specializing in probate law will assist you in navigating the challenging legal procedure of challenging a will. They are familiar with the rules and laws in Las Vegas and can safeguard your rights and interests.
Your probate lawyer will look into the events surrounding the will’s formation for evidence of incompetence or improper influence. They will acquire appropriate paperwork, interview witnesses, and assemble a compelling case on your side.
Mediation and Settlement: In some situations, a probate lawyer may try to resolve the matter through mediation rather than going to court. They will represent you in court if you cannot reach an agreement.
If the matter proceeds to the courtroom, your probate lawyer will put forward your points of view, interrogate witnesses, and fight for your position before the judge.
Hire An Estate Planning Attorney in Las Vegas from The Bourassa Law Group Today!
If you want to discuss your real estate planning in Las Vegas, in that case, you can contact the Nevada probate attorneys at The Bourassa Law Group. We can provide highly individualized estate planning services to help you avoid probate.
Call us at (800)870-8910 for a FREE consultation!
