West Palm Beach Estate & Trust Litigation Attorney

When disputes arise regarding the administration of an estate or trust, the conflict can significantly disrupt the lives of beneficiaries and create challenging situations for executors and trustees who find themselves dealing with legal exposure in courts that they never anticipated. At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our West Palm Beach estate and trust litigation attorneys are here to help resolve estate and trust conflicts efficiently and effectively. With a thorough knowledge of Florida probate and trust laws, combined with extensive experience in courtroom litigation in Palm Beach, Miami-Dade, Broward, and Martin counties, our firm offers skilled representation to individuals involved in contested estates and trusts.

Estate & Trust Litigation Overview

Estate and trust litigation involves legal disputes over the management and distribution of an individual’s assets following their death. Common causes of disputes include disagreements over the interpretation of a will or trust, allegations of undue influence or fraud, and concerns regarding the fiduciary’s actions in managing the estate or trust. These conflicts often pit beneficiaries, trustees, executors, and sometimes even creditors against each other, leading to emotionally charged situations that demand a knowledgeable and strategic legal approach.

Florida law outlines specific guidelines for contesting wills and trusts, as well as regulating fiduciary conduct. Navigating these complex legal frameworks requires an in-depth understanding of probate and trust law, making it critical to have experienced legal counsel to guide you through the process.

Common Types of Estate & Trust Disputes

Estate and trust litigation can arise from a variety of issues, many of which stem from the following:

Will Contests: Beneficiaries may dispute the validity of a will based on claims of lack of capacity, undue influence, fraud, or improper execution.
Trust Disputes: Beneficiaries or trustees may disagree over the interpretation or implementation of trust terms, the actions of the trustee, or the proper distribution of assets.
Breach of Fiduciary Duty: Executors and trustees are required to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries. Allegations of mismanagement, self-dealing, or other breaches can lead to litigation.
Undue Influence: A common claim in estate disputes, undue influence involves a situation where someone close to the decedent allegedly manipulated them into altering their will or trust in a way that benefits the influencer disproportionately.
Lack of Testamentary Capacity: A will or trust may be challenged if the person creating the document was not of sound mind when the document was executed.

These disputes can delay the distribution of assets and cause further tension among family members. Swift, experienced legal intervention is often necessary to protect your interests and bring resolution.

How Pike & Lustig, LLP Can Help

At Pike & Lustig, LLP, we represent beneficiaries, heirs, executors, and trustees in a wide range of estate and trust disputes. Our attorneys are committed to safeguarding your rights and ensuring that estates and trusts are administered according to Florida law and the decedent’s wishes. We take a personalized approach to each case, recognizing that every family dynamic and set of circumstances is unique.

Some of the key services we provide in estate and trust litigation include:

Filing Will Contests: If you believe a will is invalid due to factors such as undue influence or lack of capacity, we can represent you in challenging the will in probate court.
Trustee Defense & Beneficiary Representation: Whether you are a trustee accused of breaching your fiduciary duties or a beneficiary concerned about the administration of a trust, our legal team will advocate on your behalf.
Mediation & Negotiation: Not all disputes require a courtroom battle. We aim to resolve estate and trust disputes through negotiation or mediation whenever possible, saving time, money, and emotional stress for our clients.
Litigation in Probate Court: When disputes cannot be settled amicably, we are prepared to take the matter to court and aggressively litigate to protect your rights.

Protecting Your Rights in Florida Estate & Trust Litigation

Florida’s probate and trust laws are complex, and resolving disputes requires a thorough understanding of state statutes, case law, and the intricacies of estate planning documents. Whether you are a beneficiary concerned about receiving your inheritance or a fiduciary accused of mismanaging an estate or trust, our legal team will ensure your rights are protected.

At Pike & Lustig, LLP, we understand that estate and trust disputes can be both legally and emotionally challenging. Our attorneys are creative problem solvers and successful litigators dedicated to providing strategic, compassionate representation to guide you through these difficult matters. With our experience and knowledge of Florida estate law, you can trust us to handle your case with the care and attention it deserves.

Contact Pike & Lustig, LLP for Effective Estate & Trust Litigation Representation in West Palm Beach

If you are involved in an estate or trust dispute in West Palm Beach, Wellington, Lake Worth, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, Tequesta, Palm City, Stuart, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, or the surrounding areas, contact Pike & Lustig, LLP today. Our experienced attorneys will evaluate your case and help you determine the best course of action to protect your interests. Call us today at 561-291-8298 to learn how we can assist you in resolving your estate and trust litigation matters.