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Orange County Will Contest Attorneys

Our Orange County will contest attorneys are recognized leaders in trust and estate litigation, dedicated to protecting our clients’ interests and helping ensure that estate administration reflects the true intentions of the decedent. Whether representing trustees, executors, heirs, beneficiaries, spouses, creditors, guardians, or conservators, RMO LLP provides strategic advocacy in complex will contest matters throughout Orange County.

We understand that will disputes often involve both significant financial interests and deeply personal family dynamics. Our attorneys work closely with clients to navigate these sensitive matters with clarity, precision, and strong legal guidance, always focused on pursuing the most favorable resolution possible so clients can move forward with greater certainty and peace of mind.

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What Is A Will Contest?

A will contest is a formal legal challenge to the validity of a will, typically based on allegations that the document no longer reflects the true wishes of the will creator due to fraud, undue influence, lack of capacity, improper execution, or other misconduct. These disputes often arise when family members or interested parties believe a will was created, modified, or executed under suspicious circumstances that compromise the integrity of the estate administration process.

In a will contest, the challenging party gathers evidence and presents their claims before the probate court to determine whether all or part of the will should be invalidated. If successful, the court may restore a prior valid version of the will or, if no valid prior will exists, distribute the estate according to California intestate succession laws.

Do You Have Grounds to Contest a Will in Orange County

To pursue a will contest in Orange County, you must have legally recognized grounds supported by evidence or credible concerns regarding the validity of the document. In general, a will may be contested when there is reason to believe it was not properly executed or does not accurately reflect the creator’s true intentions.

Common grounds for contesting a will include:

Lack of Testamentary Capacity

A will may be challenged if the creator lacked the mental capacity to understand the nature of the document, their assets, or the consequences of signing the will.

Undue Influence

If a vulnerable individual was pressured, manipulated, or coerced into changing their will, the resulting document may be invalidated.

Fraud or Forgery

Evidence that a will was forged, falsified, or created through fraudulent conduct may provide clear grounds for a legal challenge.

Improper Execution

California law imposes specific legal requirements for executing a valid will. Failure to comply with these requirements may render the document invalid.

Existence of a Newer Will

A more recent and valid will may supersede earlier versions submitted to probate, creating grounds to contest outdated documents.

Beneficiary Disputes

Beneficiaries or heirs who believe they were unintentionally excluded or unfairly impacted may have grounds to investigate and potentially challenge the validity of the will.

Executor Misconduct

Executors who engage in self-dealing, mismanagement, theft of estate assets, or other breaches of fiduciary duty may face legal challenges and possible removal.

Questions Regarding Amendments or Codicils

Suspicious or last-minute changes to a will, particularly those involving concerns about undue influence or diminished capacity, may justify contesting specific amendments or codicils.

If any of these circumstances sound familiar, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. The Orange County will contest attorneys at RMO LLP can evaluate the facts of your case, explain your legal options, and help determine whether you may have valid grounds to pursue a contest.

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Orange County Will Contest Attorney Spotlights

Practicing in Orange County requires more than a strong understanding of California probate law, it also demands familiarity with the local courts, procedures, and legal community that shape how will contests are handled in the region. The Orange County will contest attorneys at RMO LLP combine extensive trust and estate litigation experience with deep roots in the community, allowing us to guide clients through complex disputes with both strategic insight and a strong understanding of the local legal landscape.

We recognize that will contests are often emotionally charged and highly personal matters. Our attorneys provide thoughtful, confidence-inspiring guidance while advocating effectively for our clients’ interests throughout every stage of the dispute.

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.

Our Orange County Office

RMO LLP proudly serves Orange County clients from our Costa Mesa office, conveniently located between Irvine and Huntington Beach. Our Orange County trust contest attorneys provide strategic, high-level representation to individuals and families navigating complex trust and probate disputes throughout the region, combining sophisticated litigation experience with a strong understanding of the local courts and legal community. 

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How Does a Will Contest Work in Orange County?

While the legal process for contesting a will is generally governed by California probate law, successfully navigating a will contest in Orange County also requires familiarity with the local probate courts, procedures, and legal landscape. The Orange County will contest attorneys at RMO LLP guide clients through every stage of the process, combining sophisticated trust and estate litigation experience with practical local insight to help clients pursue efficient and effective resolutions.

A successful will contest requires credible evidence supporting the legal grounds for the challenge. This may include medical records demonstrating lack of testamentary capacity, communications suggesting undue influence, inconsistencies in estate planning documents, or evidence of fraud or forgery. Our attorneys work closely with clients to investigate the facts, preserve important evidence, and build a strategic case tailored to the circumstances of the dispute.

Before initiating a will contest, it is important to assess the strength of the claims, the potential outcomes, and the practical considerations involved. RMO LLP provides thoughtful legal guidance to help clients understand their rights, evaluate risks and opportunities, and determine the most effective path forward based on their goals and the specific facts of the case.

Will contests are typically initiated by filing a petition in probate court. However, not every dispute requires full litigation. Many will contests can be resolved through mediation or negotiated settlement before trial. Our attorneys advocate strategically during both litigation and settlement discussions, always focused on protecting our clients’ interests while pursuing the most efficient resolution possible.

Experienced legal counsel plays a critical role throughout a will contest. From evaluating legal grounds and navigating procedural requirements to presenting evidence and advocating in court, an attorney helps guide clients through what is often a legally and emotionally complex process. RMO LLP works closely with clients at every stage to provide clear communication, practical guidance, and strong advocacy.

Will contests can involve significant financial and emotional considerations, including attorney fees, court costs, and the time required to resolve the dispute. While some matters may resolve relatively quickly through settlement, others may require extended litigation. Our attorneys help clients understand the potential costs, timelines, and strategic considerations involved so they can make informed decisions throughout the process.

If a will contest is successful, the probate court may invalidate all or part of the disputed will. In some cases, the estate may instead be administered according to a prior valid version of the will. If no valid prior will exists, the estate may be distributed according to California intestate succession laws. Our attorneys help clients understand the potential legal and financial implications of a successful contest and work to protect their interests throughout the proceedings.

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 Will Contest Lawyer in Orange County

If your loved one resided in Orange County at the time of their passing, working with an experienced local will contest attorney can provide a significant advantage when navigating the probate process and related disputes. While California probate laws apply statewide, local counsel brings valuable familiarity with the Orange County Probate Courts, regional procedures, and the practical dynamics that can influence how these matters are handled.

The Orange County estate litigation attorneys at RMO LLP combine sophisticated trust and estate litigation experience with deep roots in the local legal community. Our attorneys are active members of the Orange County Bar Association and regularly contribute to professional and educational discussions throughout the region. Team members have presented for organizations including the Orange County Bar Association and the Orange County Estate Planning Council, and have shared insights through public forums such as Business Talk with Meghan McNulty.

RMO LLP attorneys are also frequently featured in respected publications serving Orange County’s legal, business, and professional communities, offering commentary on probate litigation, trust administration, fiduciary duties, conservatorships, and developments in estate planning law.

This combination of courtroom experience, local familiarity, and community involvement allows our attorneys to provide clients with strategic guidance, strong advocacy, and confidence throughout the will contest process. Team members have also been recognized with numerous local and regional honors for their legal accomplishments and contributions to the profession, including:

It is this combination of local experience, courtroom familiarity, and strong community connection that allows us to advocate effectively on our clients’ behalf while maintaining a thoughtful understanding of the legal, financial, and personal interests at stake in will contest matters. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Contesting a Will in Orange County

A will contest in Orange County can take anywhere from a few months to several years to resolve, depending on factors such as the available evidence, the discovery required to obtain it, the local court schedule, and the methods used to resolve the conflict. For example, parties who reach an agreement during mediation rather than going to court may be able to significantly shorten this timeline.

The cost to contest a will in Orange County can range anywhere from $5,000 for a straightforward case to upwards of $50,000 dollars for complex cases with a large number of assets and interested parties. These costs may vary depending on an attorney’s hourly rate, the level of investigation necessary to gather critical evidence, and the number of assets or interested parties involved. It’s advisable to schedule a consultation with an attorney who can provide more specific insight into the costs you can expect to follow through on the most practical legal strategy.

Legal grounds to contest a will in Orange County include a lack of testamentary capacity, fraud, forgery, and improper execution. To have standing to contest a will on these grounds, an individual must be an interested party in the will, meaning they must have a financial stake in its outcome. 

Will contests in Orange County are filed in the Probate Division of the Superior Court of California, County of Orange – Probate/Mental Health Unit. The court is located at the Costa Mesa Justice Center at 3390 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, CA 92626.

You have 120 days from the date that a will is submitted into probate to contest it, in accordance with California Probate Code §8270. It is important to act quickly if you have a concern so that you have time to gather the necessary evidence and file a petition with the court. It’s crucial to consult an attorney as soon as you identify any issues with the will so that you are able to file within this window.

Yes, a handwritten will, also known as a holographic will, is valid in Orange County and the state of California at large, as long as it meets specific requirements. While the will does not require witnesses, it must be clearly written in the testator’s handwriting and be signed with their signature. The document must be signed, express testamentary intent, and include a date of writing to be accepted.

A no-contest clause may apply if you challenge a will without valid grounds to do so and a will contains a no-contest clause. However, courts in California will typically not enforce a no-contest clause if you can prove you pursued the lawsuit in good faith, with the proper grounds to do so, and with sufficient evidence. No-contest clauses are designed to discourage frivolous litigation against a will or trust, but if you have a valid reason to challenge the will, you are unlikely to be penalized by a no-contest clause.

It is always advisable to consult a will contest attorney to understand the strength of your case and whether a no-contest clause could put you at risk of losing your inheritance.

Yes, you can contest an executor who is acting improperly and failing to carry out their responsibilities to act in the estate’s best interests. Grounds to remove an executor include a breach of fiduciary duty, mismanaging or stealing estate assets, and failing to act on their responsibilities for administering the estate. To do so, you will need to file a petition for executor removal, present evidence to the court, and have a judge approve the removal.

Standing to contest a will means that you have a legally recognized ability to contest the will, and includes anyone who is an interested party in a will and has a direct financial interest in the outcome of the will. Interested parties typically include beneficiaries, legal heirs, executors or administrators, and creditors.

Orange County Will Contest Case Wins

Our Orange County will contest attorneys have a strong track record of securing favorable outcomes in complex estate and inheritance disputes, helping clients protect their rights, defend valid estate plans, and resolve high-stakes conflicts efficiently and effectively.

Successfully Defended Estate Against Disinherited Family Members’ Will Challenge

Represented the surviving spouse and executor of an estate against claims brought by the decedent’s former spouse and disinherited children, who alleged lack of capacity and undue influence in an attempt to invalidate the decedent’s estate plan. Through strategic probate litigation tactics and aggressive defense of the estate, our attorneys secured dismissal of the claims, saving the client significant time and expense.

Executor Successfully Defended Against Heir’s Will Contest

Successfully defended an executor and sole beneficiary against a will contest brought by a disinherited heir challenging the validity of the estate plan. After the trial court entered a judgment creating potential exposure to future litigation, our attorneys prevailed on appeal to modify the judgment and protect the client from additional legal claims.

Secured Dismissal of Disinherited Beneficiary’s Estate Challenge

Obtained swift dismissal of claims brought by a disinherited beneficiary seeking to challenge the administration and distribution of estate assets. By strategically navigating procedural deadlines and probate court requirements, our attorneys secured a favorable resolution that protected the estate and allowed for efficient distribution to the rightful beneficiaries.

Who We Represent In Orange County Will Contest Cases

Will contest outcomes have crucial implications for several interested parties. We offer legal guidance from every angle. Our Orange County will contest law firm represents all the following clients in understanding and exercising their legal rights during these disputes.

Executors and estate administrators are at the center of these cases, with a responsibility to both protect the will and the testator’s interests against frivolous claims, as well as to address valid concerns about the will’s validity. Our team of experienced will contest lawyers in Orange County represents executors and administrators in defending against unjust will contests and protecting the interests of the will creator.

Beneficiaries and legal heirs are both most at risk of losing their inheritance in a frivolous will contest and may also stand to gain the most from a successful will contest. The Orange County will contest attorneys at RMO provide legal guidance and representation for beneficiaries in securing their rightful distribution of assets, either by contesting an invalid will or defending against an unjustified contest.

Spouses have unique inheritance rights, which could be placed into jeopardy by a frivolous will contest. Our Orange County will contest law firm advocates for these rights by defending the interests of spouses affected by unsubstantiated will contests and by representing spouses seeking to contest a will in Orange County and reclaim their rightful access to an inheritance.

Creditors have an interest in the outcome of a will contest, as they have a right to pursue any debts they may have been owed by the estate at the time of the decedent’s death. Our Orange County will contest attorneys provide legal representation for creditors seeking restitution when an invalid will puts their claim to recover assets from an estate at risk.

Orange County Probate Courts

Will contests in Orange County are generally handled through the Probate Division of the Superior Court of California, County of Orange. The probate court oversees a broad range of estate-related matters, including the administration of wills and estates, contested inheritances, conservatorships, guardianships, and disputes involving fiduciary duties and estate administration.

The Orange County probate courts are responsible for supervising the probate process, determining the validity of wills, resolving disputes between heirs and beneficiaries, appointing executors and administrators, and overseeing the lawful distribution of estate assets. Will contests and related inheritance disputes are typically heard within the Probate/Mental Health Unit.

Superior Court of California, County of Orange – Probate/Mental Health Unit
Costa Mesa Justice Center
3390 Harbor Blvd.
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

The Superior Court of California, County of Orange is currently led by Presiding Judge Sheila F. Hanson.

Why Choose RMO Lawyers?

At RMO LLP, trust and estate litigation is at the core of what we do. If you are involved in a will contest in Orange County, our attorneys are equipped to guide you through the complexities of the probate process while advocating strategically on your behalf at every stage of the dispute — from early negotiations and mediation through courtroom litigation when necessary.

Our team combines extensive litigation experience with a strong understanding of the Orange County probate courts and local legal landscape, allowing us to provide clients with practical guidance, sophisticated advocacy, and confidence during an often difficult and emotionally charged time. We are committed to protecting people and defending legacies, and throughout every matter, we remain focused on our clients’ goals, priorities, and long-term interests.

Our work is guided by three core values:

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

These principles shape the way we approach every case. We take the time to understand the unique circumstances, family dynamics, and legal issues involved so we can develop thoughtful strategies tailored to each client’s needs. By identifying key leverage points and pursuing efficient, results-driven solutions, we work tirelessly to protect our clients’ interests both inside and outside the courtroom while striving to achieve favorable outcomes as effectively and efficiently as possible.

If you believe you may have grounds to contest a will or are facing a dispute involving a loved one’s estate, the Orange County will contest attorneys at RMO LLP are prepared to help you understand your rights, evaluate your legal options, and pursue the strongest path forward. Contact our team to schedule a consultation.

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