What should I do if I suspect an invalid will?
If you suspect an invalid will, it is important to take the appropriate steps to ensure that your rights and the rights of other beneficiaries are protected. The first step is to consult an estate planning attorney in Washington. An attorney can help you assess the situation and advise you on the best course of action. In Washington, a will is generally considered invalid if it was not properly executed or if it was not signed by at least two witnesses. A will may also be invalid if it was created when the testator (the person who created the will) did not have the necessary mental capacity or was unduly influenced. If you believe that a will is invalid, you can file a “Notice of Contest” with the probate court. This document informs the court that you are challenging the validity of the will. The court will then issue an order which officially designates the will as contested. This allows other interested parties to join the contest. In addition, you can also contact the probate court to request an investigation into the validity of the will. The court may order a hearing to determine the validity of the will. It is important to take prompt action if you suspect an invalid will in order to protect your rights and those of other beneficiaries. An experienced estate planning attorney in Washington can help you assess the situation and advise you on the best course of action.
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