Falls Church, Virginia

Probate Litigation Attorneys — Trust Dispute Lawyers

On occasion, litigation involving the probate of an estate, a will contest, or a dispute over the administration of a trust can embroil family members in an expensive, time-consuming process that leads to distrust and uncertainty. In such cases it is often wise to retain attorneys who are experienced litigators and who know the law surrounding probate and trust administration. With over 45 years of experience in trust and probate law, the lawyers of Melnick & Melnick, PLC can help with you with your legal issue. At Melnick & Melnick, PLC, we represent estate executors and administrators, potential heirs, trustees, trust beneficiaries, and others in matters related to probate and trust litigation.

Probate Disputes

Not all probate cases go smoothly. On some occasions, disputes arise over the validity of a will, its intent, or the valuation or disposition of estate assets. When theses issues occur, we help our clients to resolve the situation through negotiation, mediation, and when necessary, litigation. Some of the probate issues that we assist clients with include:

• Will contests—including errors in execution, as well as issues of ambiguity, lack of capacity, or assertions of undue influence, fraud, or duress
• Disputes over ownership of bank accounts, personal property, or real property
• Disputes over family businesses or closely held businesses
• Mixed family disputes between children of former spouses and a current spouse
• Disputes over valuations or accountings
• Allegations of improper or ineffective administration

If you have a dispute in the probate court, we have many years of experience dealing with wills and estates. We can help you defend against or advance a probate dispute. For more details, contact Melnick & Melnick, PLC for a consultation.

Trust Litigation

Disputes between beneficiaries and trustees may occur. Trustees are held to a high standard of conduct when managing the assets of a trust. These duties include the responsibility to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries, to adhere to the requirements of the trust documents, to manage trust assets actively for the benefit of the beneficiaries, and to deal fairly with the trust beneficiaries by not unfairly enhancing one’s benefits to the detriment of the beneficiaries. When these issues arise, our trust dispute lawyers work on behalf of the beneficiaries or trustees to reach the best possible outcome. Our work may involve negotiation, mediation, or even litigation.

If you are involved in a will or trust dispute, we can help. If the case goes to court, you will need a lawyer who is familiar with probate and trust law to represent you. Whether you are an executor, trustee, heir, or beneficiary, we will fight hard for your rights and interests.

Contact our Falls Church, Virginia, estate trust litigation lawyer for an initial consultation.