In a Will Contest, duress or coercion arises when the testator’s real belief in a threat causes him to change a Will, favoring the threatening person that he would otherwise not make.
The judge hearing a Will Contest case can find the Will invalid due to Duress only if he or she hears the proper evidence. Gathering this evidence will require depositions, expert witnesses, interrogatories, witness interviews, subpoenaed documents, and evidence. Your attorney must present this evidence following the Rules of Evidence. The other side will most certainly try objectioning. Our experienced Will Contest Attorney will walk you through every step of this complicated journey.
Often confused with Undue Influence, because both Duress and Undue influence result in a change to a Will because of improper persuasion. They are different. Undue Influence results from improper use of influence, while Duress results from a threat or the actual performance of violence that coerces the testator to change the Will.
Only an “interested party” may bring a Duress or Coercion Will Contest Challenge. A person would become an interested party if the Duress damaged them financially.
For example, if a caregiver’s Duress causes a patient to change her Will, reducing her brother’s inheritance, only the brother is an “interested party.” Others, who may know of and be angered by the duress, have no standing. They are not allowed to bring the matter to court.
Please contact us if you have any questions about a Will Contest based on Duress or Coercion or any other estate law topics. We can schedule a free consultation.
Klenk Law has focused only on Estate Law for more than two decades. We’ve seen it all, and this experience allows us to explain complex estate law and Probate clearly and concisely. If you are involved in Probate Litigation, our experienced Probate Litigation Attorneys will make it easy for you to understand. We provide top-notch representation so you can make the best decisions for yourself and your family.
Peter Klenk is the founding member of Klenk Law, a seven attorney boutique estate planning law firm. We serve clients in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Minnesota and Florida. Peter Klenk received his Masters in Taxation LL.M. from NYU Law School and his J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School. He served his country in the Navy JAGC during Desert Storm. Easy to talk to, feel free to call Peter for an appointment. We will make the process as easy as possible!
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Flora Novick
Knowledgeable lawyers, helpful attitude, fair fees.
Peter explained a complex subject very clearly, helped us to decide the best approach to managing our estate and then made it very easy for us to execute the required documents. He will be a valuable resource for years to come and clearly has a great understanding of estate law that will lead to innovative solutions for us. I would unhesitatingly recommend him for estate planning.
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I saw four lawyers and was told by all of them; I should just forget contesting my mother's will. I knew what happened, but it is very hard to prove undue influence. I contacted the Law Offices of Peter L. Klenk & Associates. Attorney Amanda DiChello took my case. They were very honest and upfront about what would be involved trying to prove what I knew was true. Attorney DiChello may be young but she is extremely knowledgeable and skilled. She listened and understood what I conveyed to her. She knew exactly what information to use and crafted an outstanding interrogatory and many powerful depositions. Attorney DiChello understood the various emotional feelings this case created for my family and me; she was always there for us with a kind and encouraging word. We went to trial. The amount of work which she and her Paralegal did for the trial was incredible. They both knew my case inside and out! Attorney DiChello's powerful interrogative and thinking skills produced a positive outcome. Attorney DiChello did what other seasoned lawyers said was impossible!
Peter and his associates were a pleasure to work with. He explained the process clearly and provided assistance nearly instantaneously. Highly recommended for trusts-and-estates-related needs!
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