Estate Litigation

In the aftermath of the loss of a loved one, litigation can be a confusing and stressful experience, but it can be made much easier with effective legal representation and advice from experienced practitioners — lawyers who understand the human, as well as the financial and legal, elements of a situation, and how they intertwine in the lives of clients.

We've tried many estate disputes, and resolved an even greater number, providing most of our clients with a relatively rapid and more acceptable compromise derived from the strength of position that only quality legal counsel can provide.

The evidentiary and legal framework of an estate trial are in many respects different from most other areas of trial work. Godfrey & Lapuyade has formulated special tactical guidelines used by our estate litigators to optimize our presentations and increase the likelihood of success.

 

Will Contests

  • Testamentary Intent
  • Marital & gift conflicts
  • Codicils & amendments
  • Ambiguities in instruments
  • Undue influence

Trust Conflicts

  • Conflicts of interest
  • Interpretation of trust agreements
  • Estate and gift tax issues

Probate Issues

  • Testamentary capacity
  • Estate liquidation
  • Charitable gifts

 

Estate litigation is an area of law that, perhaps more than most, defines the essence of what it means to be human. Concepts of wrongdoing, negligence and entitlement fall by the wayside in the face of two things: analysis of the testator's intent and complex rules of law. Godfrey & Lapuyade has unique insights into both areas.