Legal and Financial Protection
What if I think someone manipulated the will or trust before death?
Short answer
Consult a probate litigation attorney immediately. In California, you have 120 days from when you receive notice of the will to contest it. Evidence to gather: medical records showing cognitive decline, communications between the deceased and the person you suspect, financial records…
What this usually means
Consult a probate litigation attorney immediately. In California, you have 120 days from when you receive notice of the will to contest it. Evidence to gather: medical records showing cognitive decline, communications between the deceased and the person you suspect, financial records showing transfers, and witness accounts from people who knew the deceased.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.