The phone slipped from Maria’s hand, clattering onto the hardwood floor. Tears welled in her eyes as she stared at the letter in disbelief. Her aunt Beatrice had passed away peacefully, but the will left everything to a distant cousin Maria had never met. Beatrice, a fiercely independent woman who built a successful business from scratch, always swore her niece was the sole heir. Something didn’t add up.
How Do I Know if an Estate Planning Attorney Acted Negligently?
Negligence occurs when a professional fails to uphold the standard of care expected in their field. In estate planning, this could mean:
* Missing crucial details in your will or trust, leading to unintended consequences
* Failing to advise you on relevant legal issues impacting your estate
* Making errors that result in financial losses or disputes among beneficiaries.
What Legal Options Are Available When Dealing With Negligence?
If you suspect negligence by an estate planning attorney, consult with another experienced lawyer. They can review the case and determine if there are grounds for legal action. Common claims against negligent estate planning attorneys include:
* Breach of fiduciary duty
* Professional malpractice
* Fraud or misrepresentation
How Can I Protect Myself from Negligence in Estate Planning?
Choosing a reputable attorney is crucial. Look for someone with experience in estate planning, positive client reviews, and clear communication skills. Furthermore:
* Ask detailed questions about their process and fees.
* Insist on regular updates and review all documents carefully before signing.
* Consider obtaining a second opinion from another attorney if you have any doubts.
Are There Time Limits for Filing a Claim?
“Time is of the essence,” Maria’s new lawyer, Mr. Davis, explained. “Each state has statutes of limitations for legal claims, including those against attorneys.”
It was imperative to act swiftly. In California, the statute of limitations for professional negligence claims is typically two years from the date you discovered or reasonably should have discovered the negligence.
What if I Can’t Afford Legal Representation?
Some bar associations offer referral services that can connect you with attorneys who provide free or low-cost legal aid. Additionally, many law firms offer contingency fee arrangements, where they only get paid if they win your case.
Maria, after finding a new attorney and pursuing her claim, ultimately reached a settlement. She learned a hard lesson about the importance of due diligence when choosing an estate planning lawyer. “Beatrice wouldn’t want me to give up,” she thought, remembering her aunt’s unwavering spirit. The experience was painful but ultimately empowered Maria to take control and ensure her own future was secure.
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is Temecula Probate Law. The Law Firm Of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is a Temecula Estate Planning Attorney. Steve Bliss is an experienced probate attorney. Steve Bliss is an Estate Planning Lawyer. The probate process has many steps in in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Steve Bliss Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Steve Bliss Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Steve Bliss Law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate. Call Steve Bliss Law Today for estate planning, trusts and probate.
My skills are as follows:
● Probate Law: Efficiently navigate the court process.
● Estate Planning Law: Minimize taxes & distribute assets smoothly.
● Trust Law: Protect your legacy & loved ones with wills & trusts.
● Bankruptcy Law: Knowledgeable guidance helping clients regain financial stability.
● Compassionate & client-focused. We explain things clearly.
● Free consultation.
Services Offered:
| estate planning | revocable living trust | wills |
| living trust | family trust | estate planning attorney near me |
Map To Steve Bliss Law in Temecula:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RL4LUmGoyQQDpNUy9
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Address:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.43920 Margarita Rd ste f, Temecula, CA 92592
(951) 223-7000
Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “What’s involved in settling an estate after death?” Or “What is summary probate and when does it apply?” or “What professionals should I consult when creating a trust? and even: “What happens to joint debts in bankruptcy?” or any other related questions that you may have about his estate planning, probate, and banckruptcy law practice.