Free Consultation — Click Here
Free Consultation

Call Now: 424-320-9444

Orange County Probate Estate Litigation Attorneys

Our team of Orange County probate estate litigation attorneys is consistently recognized as among the best in the business, dedicated to protecting legacies and defending people. With a decades-long track record of representing clients like executors, administrators, heirs, beneficiaries, spouses, and creditors, we help you navigate probate disputes so you can move on with your life sooner.

What is Probate Litigation in Orange County?

Probate litigation involves legal disputes that arise after someone passes away, often concerning the validity of a will, the actions of an executor, or conflicts among heirs and beneficiaries. In Orange County, these cases frequently center on high-value estates, complex family dynamics, and disputes involving real estate and business ownership interests.

Cases in Orange County often see probate matters involving sophisticated estate plans, significant assets, and complex family dynamics. Common disputes include will contests, breach of fiduciary duty claims, disagreements over asset distribution, and allegations of undue influence or elder financial abuse.

Successfully resolving probate litigation in Orange County requires skilled legal counsel with deep knowledge of California probate law and experience navigating the Orange County Superior Court. At RMO Lawyers, we focus exclusively on these types of cases and are committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome.

Our Orange County Office

Our Orange County clients can conveniently find us at our local office and contact us to schedule a consultation. 

Orange County Probate Litigation Attorney Spotlights

Our probate litigation attorneys are highly-regarded throughout Orange County and beyond for their ability to resolve complex estate and fiduciary disputes. We combine strategic courtroom advocacy with a client-focused approach, providing trusted counsel rooted in professionalism, integrity, and compassion.

Scott E. Rahn
  • Founding Partner
Scott E. Rahn
  • Founding Partner
What has always stood out to me about Orange County is its strong sense of family, community, and a sincere commitment to doing right by one’s neighbor. These values form the foundation of life here. They are also evident in the local probate and estate litigation community, where judges and practitioners focus intently on helping families navigate disruptions that threaten their legacies. Since arriving in Orange County thirty years ago, it has been my privilege to serve and be a part of this community.
Sean D. Muntz
  • Managing Partner
Sean D. Muntz
  • Managing Partner
As with all our probate and estate litigation cases, the best part of handling matters in Orange County is our clients. The satisfaction of helping and providing a sense of relief is truly immeasurable. The cases we handle here are both unique and diverse. While many involve real estate, which is often the most valuable asset in dispute, others include varied business interests with interesting and often complex issues to resolve. The judges at the Orange County courthouse are among the most skilled. They show genuine care and thoughtful consideration in each case. The legal community, especially in probate and estate litigation, is equally professional and capable.
Meghan M. Glaspy
  • Managing Partner – Orange County
Meghan M. Glaspy
  • Managing Partner – Orange County
What I love most about the Orange County community is its close-knit nature. This applies not only to the bench but also to colleagues, whether we are on the same side or opposing sides of a case. The probate and estate litigation field is already a small niche and in Orange County it feels like a family where you quickly get to know many of the key players, keeping the atmosphere collegial. There is also an emerging group of younger attorneys working together to strengthen these ties. The bench is experiencing a similar transition with new judges joining. These relationships ultimately promote the best and most efficient outcomes for our clients.
Stephanie K. Delaney
  • Managing Attorney – Estate Administration
Stephanie K. Delaney
  • Managing Attorney – Estate Administration
Practicing probate litigation in Orange County is unique because of a blend of local court rules, procedural nuances, and the area’s demographics. With significant real estate wealth and many high-net-worth individuals, we frequently handle complex assets such as luxury properties, family businesses, and diverse investment portfolios. These factors often result in more contested probate and estate disputes, especially with multiple beneficiaries or blended families. This keeps us challenged and makes practicing in Orange County both dynamic and rewarding.
Phillip J. Szachowicz
  • Attorney
Phillip J. Szachowicz
  • Attorney
Although Orange County Probate Courts handle a large volume of cases daily, the judges consistently provide thoughtful attention to each matter. Their dedication greatly assists us in advancing even the most complex probate litigation cases through a court system that is often heavily backlogged.
Gregory J. Frenkiel
  • Attorney
Gregory J. Frenkiel
  • Attorney
The Orange County legal community is close-knit, vibrant, and influential throughout Southern California. I appreciate working close to the courthouse, which allows me to develop familiarity with local judges and attorneys. Helping clients in the area is especially rewarding given my deep roots here, having been born and raised in Orange County and attended law school at Chapman University in the heart of the county.
Mina L. Brar
  • Attorney
Mina L. Brar
  • Attorney
Helping families preserve their legacies for future generations is incredibly fulfilling. The combination of clients’ strong devotion to family and Orange County’s booming real estate market presents a unique and engaging challenge. This makes probate and estate litigation here particularly rewarding.

Probate Estate Litigation Services We Offer in Orange County

Disputes that arise during probate administration can be complex and complicate an already difficult time with the loss of a loved one. In Orange County, our skilled attorneys provide the following services to support you and protect the best interests of your loved one’s estate.

Will Contests

During probate, circumstances may arise where a party doubts a will’s validity or legitimacy and pursues a legal challenge. Potential grounds for a will contest may include a lack of testamentary capacity of the will creator, undue influence, fraud, or improper execution of the document.

The attorneys at RMO LLP can assist you in establishing whether you have legal grounds for a will contest and begin the process for initiating a will contest by filing a formal petition if so. If you believe you have a case to validate, invalidate, or appeal a will, we can help.

Executor & Administrator Breach of Fiduciary Duty

A fiduciary duty is the executor or estate administrator’s responsibility to act in the best interests of an estate and the beneficiaries identified in a will. If an estate representative allegedly fails to uphold this duty, legal action may be taken. The attorneys at RMO can support on either side of these cases, including beneficiaries who have been impacted as well as the executor or administrator facing a lawsuit.

Contested Estate Administration

A smooth estate and probate administration process is critical to ensuring a fair and equitable distribution of assets to the decedent’s heirs, identified either by a will or state law. The support of an attorney can make a critical difference in providing you with the resources you need for a smooth result.

The team at RMO Lawyers is well-versed in the estate administration process, with decades of first-hand experience. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of wills, trusts, and estate settlements, we’ll provide you with close guidance as you navigate the process for yourself.

Inheritance Disputes & Theft

Inheritance is the legal process by which a deceased person’s assets are distributed to their heirs or beneficiaries to settle an estate. If the decedent left a will, the beneficiaries will be identified in the document. If there is no will, the heirs to receive an inheritance will be identified according to intestacy laws.

 

A variety of disputes can arise during the inheritance process, such as if beneficiaries disagree on the terms of a will or one party suspects that another has stolen estate assets. Our Orange County probate estate litigation attorneys at RMO have extensive experience in inheritance dispute and theft litigation cases, equipping us to help you resolve these issues.

Our Awards

Best Lawyers - Firm Logo - w
Ones To Watch - Firm Logo -w
best law firms badge
inc 500 fastest growing company logo
rmo-lawdragon-2025
super lawyers logo
avvo logo
rmo-chambers-award-2025_4x
AV Preeminent Lawyer Ratings
la business journal most admired law firms logo

Frequently Asked Questions About Probate Litigation in Orange County

Probate jurisdiction usually depends on where the decedent lived at the time of death or where their assets are located. In Southern California, it’s common for individuals to own property in multiple counties, such as a residence in Newport Beach and rental property in Los Angeles. If there’s uncertainty about where to file, we analyze key factors including the decedent’s domicile, property locations, and relevant court rules to determine the correct venue. Filing in the wrong jurisdiction can cause delays, so confirming this early is critical.

In Orange County, it’s common for individuals to enter into second or even third marriages, often later in life and with significant assets already accumulated. These blended family situations can lead to disputes over community property, prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, and beneficiary designations. Stepchildren or former spouses may contest wills or trusts, especially if recent changes were made late in life. We have extensive experience navigating these emotionally charged and complex cases to protect your interests and ensure the estate is administered according to the law.

The length of probate litigation depends on the complexity of the case, the number of parties involved, and whether the dispute goes to trial. Some cases can be resolved within a few months. Others, especially those involving contested wills or fiduciary breaches, may take a year or longer. Our goal is to resolve matters efficiently while protecting your best interests.

Costs vary depending on the nature of the dispute, the number of court filings, and whether the case settles early or proceeds to trial. At RMO Lawyers, we are committed to transparency and will discuss all fees upfront so you can make informed decisions throughout the process.

Yes. We regularly use mediation and other alternative dispute resolution methods to help resolve probate disputes more quickly and cost-effectively. These options often reduce the stress and expense of trial while still working toward favorable outcomes.

No. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation for probate litigation matters. During this consultation, we will listen to your concerns, evaluate your situation, discuss fees and retainers, and recommend the best course of action based on your goals.

We represent clients in many types of probate litigation including contested wills, claims of undue influence, breach of fiduciary duty, disputes involving executors or administrators, and cases of elder financial abuse. Whether you are pursuing or defending a claim, we are dedicated to protecting your rights.

Why Hire a Probate Litigation Lawyer in Orange County

When facing a probate dispute in Orange County, it’s not enough to understand California probate law in the abstract. You need a lawyer who knows how the Orange County Superior Court handles probate cases, understands the region’s wealth and family dynamics, and can navigate disputes efficiently and effectively. At RMO Lawyers, we have deep experience in Orange County probate litigation and bring a hyperlocal perspective that helps resolve matters with precision and speed.

With cities like Newport Beach, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, and Yorba Linda, Orange County is home to high-value estates, blended families, real estate portfolios, and complex financial structures. Probate litigation here often involves disputes over trust amendments, elder influence claims, sibling rivalries, and second or third marriages that complicate inheritance expectations. We are well-versed in managing these emotionally charged and high-stakes cases.

Orange County Community Connection

Our attorneys maintain strong, active connections within the Orange County legal and civic community. Our team regularly participates in local initiatives, continuing legal education, and collaborative efforts that support the development of trust and estate practice across the region.

We are proud to support organizations that reflect our values and serve Orange County residents. Our attorneys are involved with the Orangewood Foundation and the Samueli Academy, which provide education and support services to foster youth and underserved students. We also support the mission of OC Animal Allies, through board leadership, which advocates for the compassionate treatment and protection of animals throughout the county.

Orange County Thought Leadership and Media Recognition

Our attorneys are regularly featured in trusted publications that serve Orange County’s professional and legal communities. In the Orange County Business Journal and the Daily Journal, they have shared insights on trust administration, probate proceedings, fiduciary responsibilities, and the evolving landscape of estate planning.

Team members have been recognized for their contributions with several local and regional honors, including:

Speaking Engagements and Community Education

Our attorneys are committed to educating and supporting the Orange County legal community through regular speaking engagements. They have presented for the Orange County Bar Association, the Orange County Estate Planning Council, and in public forums like Business Talk with Meghan McNulty, where they have addressed key topics including estate planning approaches, fiduciary roles, and protecting vulnerable adults from financial harm.

Through service, public education, and local involvement, our team continues to help individuals, families, and professionals throughout Orange County navigate the challenges of estate and trust matters while supporting a stronger, more informed community.

Ready to Get Started? We're Here to Help.

Get trusted guidance and resolution in your probate litigation case – contact our Orange County probate lawyers today for a free consultation.

Free Consultation

Client Testimonials

Check out what our clients think about their experience working with our Orange County probate litigation attorney.

Brought Peace

“Working with RMO and Sean specifically was an incredible experience. He was extremely professional and I knew he had my best interests at all time. In the unfortunate circumstance I was in he was able to guide me and help bring me peace by resolving a family dispute which was both complex and sensitive.”

— Mine C.

Great Attorney

“Scott is a great attorney. He listens and is aggressive in his pursuit of the best amount for your case. He is well known for settling cases that make everyone happy! He is very accommodating and accomplished.”

— Marla S.

Guided Through Probate

“The RMO team helped guide me through the probate process. I highly recommend them.”

— Pamela S.

Highly Recommended

“Scott and the nice folks at RMO were helpful in determining heirship for my late uncle’s estate. I would highly recommend them.”

— Will T.

Orange County Probate Estate Case Wins

Our Orange County probate estate litigation attorneys have a proven track record of success, underscored by our commitment to defending people and protecting legacies.

Disbarred Attorney Interloper Prevented from Taking Clients’ Inheritance
Defeated a disbarred attorney’s efforts to steal the estate of our clients’ deceased brother. The brother originally had designated our clients as equal beneficiaries of his estate, but after his mental health declined and he came to falsely believe his brother was imprisoning him and his sister was stealing from him, the disbarred attorney named himself as executor and disinherited the siblings. We secured appointment of a neutral, private professional fiduciary as executor and rightful inheritances for the siblings, preventing the bad actor attorney from serving or profiting.
Invalidated Assignment of Elder Beneficiary’s Interest
Secured an elderly client’s rightful inheritance from her brother’s estate, invalidating the ill-gotten assignment the brother’s widow and her attorney had secured from her using subterfuge and without advising her to seek her own counsel.
Secured Retirement Benefits for Surviving Spouse
Represented the surviving spouse in successfully defending her status as beneficiary of her deceased husband’s retirement benefits against contest by the decedent’s former wife and children, who had claimed lack of capacity and undue influence.
Disputed Heirship Recognized
Effectuated heirship for the secret scion daughter of the decedent, who learned of his daughter only late in life and came to celebrate their relationship and hold her out to his community and confidants, but refrained from sharing their relationship with his wife and daughter, which led to disputed heirship after he passed.

Who We Represent in Orange County Probate Estate Litigation Cases

Probate estate litigation cases are complex and involve multiple parties. RMO offers support to clients in every angle of an issue. Our probate estate litigation attorneys in Orange County represent all the following clients across Southern California to provide counsel on their rights and seek the best possible outcome.

Executors & Administrators

If you are an executor or estate administrator and find that your appointment or administration efforts are being challenged through litigation, we can help. Probate estate litigation challenges may include a competing petition or objection to probate, a will contest, breach of fiduciary duty claims, a petition for instructions, or a petition for removal. In any case, we will work diligently to thoroughly investigate and either litigate or resolve your dispute.

Beneficiaries & Heirs

Beneficiaries and heirs are often the targets of will and inheritance disputes as they have a direct stake in the outcome of a settled estate. Our probate estate litigation attorneys in Orange County work to build a winning strategy to protect the rights of beneficiaries and heirs, offering representation in disputes, contesting amendments, and safeguarding their interests to secure their rightful inheritance.

Spouses

Spouses have unique rights in probate estate litigation cases. Our Orange County probate estate litigation lawyers assist spouses in understanding these rights and navigating potential disputes so that they can reclaim what is rightfully theirs. Our attorneys can support you in several areas, including counsel for spousal claims, representation in litigation, and more.

Creditors

Creditors must follow careful procedures to submit a claim for unresolved debts during the probate administration process or risk losing what’s rightfully theirs. If a claim is not properly resolved, creditors may have the right to pursue legal action. Our probate litigation attorneys can help you assert your claim and understand your legal options for securing your rightful debts.

Orange County Probate Courts

The Orange County Probate Courts are a court system created by state statutes and headed by elected judges. A probate court generally oversees and facilitates some of the following processes: 

  • Probates the wills of deceased persons
  • Declares the heirs of deceased persons who die without a will
  • Establishes guardianships for incapacitated persons and minors
  • Supervises court-ordered involuntary mental health commitments in Orange County

A probate court also has the jurisdiction to hear lawsuits that are relevant to the estate of a decedent or ward, as well as actions by or against a personal representative of a decedent’s or ward’s estate. These cases may cover a large variety of matters, including product liability, fiduciary litigation, medical malpractice, family law, and more.

Probate Courts in Orange County

Probate litigation will be facilitated by the court with jurisdiction over cases that take place in the county of Orange. The Superior Court of California, County of Orange – Probate and Mental Health unit is located at: 

Orange County Will And Estate Legal Forms

Our Orange County probate litigation attorneys can assist you in identifying and completing any forms that may be relevant to or necessary for your case during estate administration or litigation. Probate forms in California are provided by the Judicial Council of California and are standardized across counties in the state, so you can search for and find the proper forms on the California Courts website. 

For localized forms and additional resources pertaining specifically to Orange County, visit the Orange County Superior Court website. The experienced lawyers at RMO LLP can offer guidance in identifying the appropriate forms for your case and filing them with the court.

Why Hire RMO Lawyers

At RMO LLP, probate disputes are our forte. Clients view us as some of the best attorneys in Orange County, with a proven track record of driving real-world results that help clients move on with their lives sooner. Protecting People and Defending Legacies is what RMO is all about. 

We take pride in being not only strong lawyers in the courtroom but also compassionate individuals who are committed to serving our community with a high level of character and empathy. In anything we do, we are driven by our core values:

  • Lead with Integrity
  • Precision-Driven Results
  • Stronger Together

Leading with these values, we always advocate for our clients, their goals, and their best interests. Our Orange County probate estate litigation attorneys take the time to understand your case and the unique dynamics surrounding it, allowing us to create a winning strategy for your case and achieve the best possible outcome in as little time as possible.

As Seen On

Inside_Edition_logo logo
Bloomberg_logo logo
BBC logo
NPR logo
Today_logo logo
newsweek
CNN logo

Free Consultation

A member of the RMO Client Relations team will reach out to gather additional information concerning the parties to your case and schedule your consultation.

    Communication Disclaimer

    Please note that communications by you to RMO LLP or any of its lawyers through this website do not create an attorney-client relationship between you and the firm. Do not send any privileged or confidential information to the firm through this website or otherwise until instructed in writing from us to do so.