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Comprehensive Guide to Challenging a Will in Hollywood
Challenging a will in Hollywood involves understanding the legal standards that govern probate disputes in Los Angeles County. This guide explains common reasons people contest wills, including doubts about a testator’s mental condition at signing, possible coercion or manipulation by others, allegations of fraud, and errors in how a will was executed. Heirs, beneficiaries, and other interested parties can use this resource to learn the basic elements of a contest, the kinds of evidence that matter, and the procedural steps that follow. Knowing these basics helps you evaluate whether challenging a will is appropriate given the facts and local court procedures in Hollywood.
Acting promptly and gathering solid information are essential when considering a will challenge in Hollywood. California imposes strict deadlines and specific filing requirements that can limit your options if you wait. Effective preparation includes identifying witnesses, securing medical records, and preserving any relevant correspondence or documents. The probate courts in Los Angeles County follow set rules for contests, so understanding local practices can improve your ability to participate meaningfully in the process. This guide aims to help you recognize potential legal issues, prepare your questions, and decide on the best course of action while keeping family relationships and practical outcomes in focus.
Why Challenging a Will Matters in Hollywood
Pursuing a will challenge can protect rightful inheritance and ensure that a decedent’s true intentions are followed under California law. Contesting a will serves to correct documents that may have been signed under questionable circumstances or that do not reflect the person’s actual wishes. When contested appropriately, a challenge can restore a prior distribution, prevent undue enrichment, or address fraud and procedural defects. For Hollywood residents, where estates may involve significant assets and complex family relationships, the benefits include protecting financial interests, clarifying entitlement, and seeking a fair resolution through negotiation or court review depending on the situation.
About Our Hollywood Will Challenge Team
LA Estate Plans focuses on wills, trusts, and probate matters for people in Hollywood and across Los Angeles County. Our team provides personalized guidance through contested probate matters, offering attentive case review and practical planning. We are familiar with local probate court procedures and California law, and we work to communicate clearly about options, timelines, and likely steps. If you need assistance, our office in Los Angeles handles intake, document review, and strategic planning to help protect your interests; call 310-634-1006 to discuss the specifics of your situation and learn how we typically proceed with similar matters in Hollywood.
Understanding Will Challenges in Hollywood
A will challenge is a legal action brought in probate court to contest the validity of a last will and testament. In Hollywood, as elsewhere in California, challenges must meet statutory requirements and be supported by facts showing why the document should not control distribution. Common bases include claims that the testator lacked the required mental capacity, was subject to undue pressure, the will was procured by fraud, or it was not executed according to legal formalities. Knowing these standards helps interested persons assess the strength of potential claims and the types of proof that may be needed to move forward in a contest.
The procedural path in a will contest typically begins with filing a formal objection or petition in probate court and continues through evidence gathering, potential settlement negotiations, and possible hearings. Parties often engage in document discovery, witness interviews, and expert review of medical or financial records to support their claims. Throughout the process, time limits and rules of evidence play a major role. Understanding each phase and preparing appropriate documentation increases the likelihood of presenting a clear, organized case to the court or to opposing parties during settlement discussions.
What a Will Challenge Means in California
A will challenge, sometimes called a will contest, is an action seeking to invalidate all or part of a last will and testament. Petitioners must assert a legal basis for the contest, such as lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, fraud, or improper execution. The goal can be to have the will set aside entirely, to have certain provisions removed, or to revert distribution to an earlier valid will or to intestate succession rules. In California courts, the petitioner must present credible facts and evidence to support the claim, and the court then evaluates the validity of the document in light of legal standards and the available proof.
Key Elements and Steps in a Will Contest
Successful navigation of a will challenge involves identifying solid grounds for contest, meeting filing deadlines, and assembling supporting evidence. Key elements include proving the testator lacked capacity when signing, showing that undue influence was exerted, demonstrating fraud, or proving that signing formalities were not followed. The process also requires preparation for discovery, depositions, and possible court hearings. Strategic steps include documenting relevant facts, preserving records and witnesses, and considering alternative dispute resolution to resolve disputes without protracted litigation where appropriate.
Glossary of Important Terms for Will Challenges
Familiarity with common legal terms helps anyone involved in a will challenge communicate clearly and understand court filings. This glossary focuses on concepts you will encounter in probate contests, including definitions of the parties involved, legal standards for capacity, the meaning of undue influence, the role of probate court, and procedural milestones such as petition filing and hearings. Being conversant with these terms supports better preparation, informed decision making, and more effective discussions with counsel and family members during a dispute in Hollywood and across Los Angeles County.
Testator
The testator is the individual who makes a will and specifies how their property should be distributed after death. The testator must have the requisite mental ability at the time of signing to understand the nature and effect of the document and to appreciate the people who would be affected by its terms. Questions about the testator’s condition around the time of execution often form the basis for contests. Evidence such as medical records, contemporaneous notes, and witness testimony can be used to evaluate whether the testator met legal standards when the will was created.
Undue Influence
Undue influence occurs when an individual exerts pressure, manipulation, or coercion over a testator so that the resulting will reflects another person’s wishes rather than the testator’s own intent. Signs of undue influence may include isolation of the testator, sudden changes to beneficiaries without a reasonable explanation, or evidence that someone controlled access to the testator during estate planning. Proving undue influence typically requires showing a relationship of trust and opportunity to exert control, plus evidence that the testator’s true wishes were subverted at the time of signing.
Probate Court
Probate court is the judicial forum that supervises the administration of estates following a person’s death. In Los Angeles County, the probate division handles will admissions, appointment of personal representatives, disputes over wills and trusts, and distribution of estate assets. When a will is contested, the probate court evaluates the legal sufficiency of the filing, oversees evidence collection, and makes determinations about validity based on statutory law and case precedent. Understanding local practice in the probate court helps parties plan filings and anticipate timelines for hearings and rulings.
Testamentary Capacity
Testamentary capacity refers to the legal ability of a person to make a valid will at the time of signing. The person must understand the nature of the act, the extent of their property, and the natural objects of their bounty, meaning those who would reasonably inherit. Medical conditions, cognitive decline, or medications that impair judgment can be relevant to capacity disputes. Medical records, contemporaneous witness accounts, and testimony from those who interacted with the testator near the time of signing are commonly used to evaluate whether capacity existed.
Comparing Options for Resolving Will Disputes
When facing a will dispute in Hollywood, parties can pursue different paths to address disagreements. Informal negotiation and direct settlement discussions can resolve many issues without court involvement, saving time and cost. Mediation introduces a neutral third party to facilitate resolution and preserve relationships. Formal litigation in probate court is appropriate when disputes cannot be resolved and when a clear legal ruling is required. Each option carries tradeoffs in terms of expense, privacy, duration, and emotional strain, so choosing a path involves weighing the estate’s value, the complexity of the issues, and the willingness of parties to compromise.
When a Limited Approach May Be Appropriate:
Clear, Uncontested Wills
A limited approach can be sufficient when a will is clear and all interested parties agree about its provisions. In these circumstances, minimal legal involvement helps to expedite probate and reduce costs while ensuring required filings and notices are completed correctly. Handling the matter with streamlined assistance can speed distribution and limit friction. Parties should still confirm that the will meets legal formalities and that statutory notices are properly handled to avoid later disputes, but when consensus exists, a full litigation strategy is not necessary and can be avoided in many straightforward Hollywood cases.
Small or Simple Estates
Estates with modest assets or simple distribution schemes often do not require extensive litigation or discovery. For small or straightforward estates, focused legal help to manage probate filings and ensure proper asset transfer may be all that is needed. Keeping the process efficient reduces costs and conserves estate value for beneficiaries. Even in these cases, reviewing the will for execution defects or potential conflicts is prudent, but a limited approach that emphasizes administration rather than contest often meets the needs of families dealing with routine estate matters in Hollywood.
When Comprehensive Legal Support Is Recommended:
Complex Family Relationships
Comprehensive legal support is advisable when disputes involve multiple heirs, blended families, or contentious relationships that increase the risk of prolonged disagreement. In such situations, careful case evaluation, detailed evidence gathering, and strategic planning help present a coherent position and pursue settlement or litigation as needed. A thorough approach also anticipates potential counterclaims and addresses procedural hurdles so parties are not blindsided. When family dynamics are complicated, investing in comprehensive representation helps navigate sensitivity, communication, and legal complexities to protect interests and seek an equitable resolution.
High-Value Estates
Estates with significant assets merit thorough attention because the financial stakes are high and disputes can lead to complex litigation. Comprehensive service involves close document analysis, forensic review of transactions, careful witness preparation, and readiness for trial if necessary. Robust representation can help preserve estate value, address potential claims of misconduct, and pursue outcomes that reflect the testator’s true intent. For Hollywood residents facing substantial estate matters, a full-service approach supports detailed legal work and factual investigation tailored to the particular financial and relational complexities of each case.
Advantages of a Comprehensive Will Challenge Approach
A comprehensive approach brings focused investigation and methodical planning to contested probate matters. Thorough fact-finding, careful review of medical and financial records, and systematic witness interviews increase the chances of identifying strong grounds for a challenge or of achieving a favorable settlement. This approach reduces the risk of overlooking details that could affect the outcome, helps frame persuasive arguments for negotiation or court, and supports informed decision making throughout the process. Comprehensive preparation also improves the ability to respond to opposing claims and to present a cohesive narrative in negotiations or hearings.
In addition to investigation and preparation, comprehensive service provides continuity from intake through resolution. That continuity facilitates timely filings, consistent communication with all parties, and strategic adjustments as the matter develops. For clients in Hollywood, this means coordinated efforts to protect inheritance rights, limit unnecessary expenses, and pursue settlement where appropriate. A thorough approach also helps clarify realistic outcomes, establish priorities, and manage expectations so families can focus on recovery and practical steps rather than procedural uncertainty during a challenging time.
Thorough Case Assessment
Thorough case assessment involves an in-depth review of all relevant documents, witness accounts, and medical or financial evidence that may support a will contest. Early assessment helps identify strengths and weaknesses, prioritize investigative steps, and estimate likely outcomes. It also allows parties to explore alternative resolutions such as settlement or mediation before escalating to costly litigation. By evaluating the factual record carefully, those involved can make informed decisions about whether to pursue a challenge and how to allocate resources most effectively while keeping the testator’s intent and estate value central to planning.
Skilled Negotiation and Court Preparation
Effective negotiation and court readiness are important benefits of a full-service approach. Skilled representation helps structure settlement discussions and mediations, present persuasive positions to opposing parties, and prepare strong records for hearings when necessary. Being well prepared for trial or court review also strengthens negotiation leverage and increases the chance of reaching a favorable resolution without protracted litigation. For Hollywood estate disputes, combining negotiation skills with careful preparation reduces uncertainty, protects estate assets, and advances outcomes aligned with the decedent’s likely intentions and the legal standards that apply.
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Practical Tips for Navigating Will Challenges
Gather Relevant Documentation Early
Start by collecting all documents related to the decedent’s estate, prior wills, and communications that could shed light on intent or circumstances at signing. Medical records, appointment logs, financial statements, correspondence, and notes from caregivers or advisors can be especially informative. Preserving original documents, digital messages, and any witnesses’ contact information early helps avoid loss of key evidence. Organizing materials chronologically and noting dates, interactions, and any unusual events or behaviors provides a helpful foundation for evaluating potential grounds for a challenge and for presenting a coherent account during settlement talks or court proceedings.
Observe California Deadlines
Consider Alternative Dispute Resolution
Exploring mediation or settlement discussions can often resolve will disputes with less expense and emotional strain than a trial. A neutral mediator can help parties exchange information, identify core issues, and reach compromises that respect the decedent’s intent and minimize family conflict. Mediation can be confidential and flexible, allowing creative solutions not available through court orders. While not suitable in every case, alternative dispute resolution frequently leads to faster outcomes and reduced legal fees, and it may preserve relationships better than contested litigation in probate court.
Reasons to Consider a Will Challenge in Hollywood
You might consider a will challenge if you suspect the document fails to reflect the decedent’s true wishes, was signed under questionable circumstances, or resulted from improper conduct. Other reasons include discovering a prior valid will that appears to have been superseded under suspicious circumstances, uncovering evidence of fraud, or learning that the testator lacked sufficient capacity at the time of execution. When inheritance rights appear threatened or the estate distribution seems unfair, a carefully evaluated challenge can address those concerns within established legal procedures in Los Angeles County.
In addition to protecting financial interests, pursuing a challenge can bring clarity and closure for family members who believe a will does not accurately represent the decedent’s intent. A legal review can uncover whether procedural defects exist that would justify invalidation or modification. Consideration should also include the likely costs, timeframes, and emotional toll of litigation. Exploring mediation or settlement early may resolve disputes amicably, but when formal action is needed, timely preparation and careful presentation of facts are essential to preserving rights under California probate law.
Common Situations That Lead to Will Challenges
Typical scenarios prompting will contests include alleged lack of capacity, claims of undue influence by a caregiver or relative, evidence of fraudulent activity surrounding the document, or improper signing procedures that fail to meet statutory requirements. Disputes often arise when a will sharply changes beneficiary designations near the end of life or when a new will is created without clear explanation. These circumstances can generate questions about validity and fairness, making careful review and timely action necessary to examine whether a legal challenge is warranted and how best to proceed in Hollywood probate proceedings.
Concerns About Mental Capacity
Allegations that the testator lacked mental capacity at the time a will was executed are a frequent basis for contests. Capacity disputes focus on whether the person understood the nature of their assets, the consequences of the will’s provisions, and the identities of those who would inherit. Medical records, contemporaneous observations, and testimony from those who knew the testator can help clarify whether capacity was present. Timing matters greatly, as capacity is evaluated at the moment of execution, so evidence tied closely to that date is particularly persuasive in probate proceedings.
Allegations of Undue Influence
Claims of undue influence arise when a person is suspected of manipulating or coercing the testator into altering a will for their benefit. Patterns such as isolation of the testator, unusually large changes in bequests favoring a single individual, or restricted access by family members can indicate pressure. Establishing undue influence generally requires showing that someone had the opportunity to exert control, a confidential relationship with the testator, and that suspicious circumstances surround the will’s creation. Documenting these facts early strengthens the ability to present a coherent account during a contest.
Improper Execution or Fraud
Improper execution or fraud may invalidate a will when formal statutory requirements were not followed or when the document was procured through deceit. Improper execution can include missing signatures, absent witnesses, or failure to comply with California formalities. Fraud may involve forgery, misrepresentation, or concealment of relevant facts that led the testator to sign under false pretenses. Demonstrating these issues relies on documentary proof, handwriting analysis, witness statements, and other evidentiary sources to show that the will does not meet legal standards for validity.
We're Here to Help Hollywood Residents With Will Challenges
Why Choose LA Estate Plans for Will Challenges in Hollywood
LA Estate Plans handles wills, trusts, and probate matters for clients in Hollywood and throughout Los Angeles County. Our approach emphasizes careful review of relevant documents, clear communication about options and timelines, and focused planning tailored to each matter. We work to explain the process in plain terms and to identify practical next steps that protect your legal interests. If you wish to discuss a potential will contest, our team can evaluate the facts, outline likely procedures, and explain how to proceed in a way that aligns with your objectives and the applicable California probate rules.
Transparency about fees, realistic assessments of case strengths, and proactive communication are central to our service model. We discuss potential costs, likely timelines, and alternative paths such as mediation when appropriate, so you can make informed choices. Our process includes careful evidence review, coordination with witnesses, and preparation of required filings in probate court. By focusing on a clear plan tailored to each matter, we aim to help clients pursue reasonable resolutions while managing expense and complexity during an already stressful time.
Clients benefit from steady guidance through uncertain proceedings, including advice on preserving records, preparing statements, and engaging in settlement discussions when appropriate. Our role is to help you understand legal options, anticipate common procedural issues, and present information in a persuasive, organized way. We prioritize responsiveness so you have the information needed to move forward confidently. To start the process or get questions answered about a potential challenge, call 310-634-1006 and we will outline how an initial review is handled for Hollywood matters.
Contact LA Estate Plans to Discuss Your Will Challenge
How the Will Challenge Process Works at Our Firm
Our process begins with an intake and document review to identify possible grounds for contest and to determine key deadlines. We then work to preserve evidence, contact witnesses, and develop a strategy that balances the goals of the client with practical considerations such as cost and timing. Where appropriate, we attempt negotiated resolutions or mediation to avoid extended litigation, while remaining prepared to pursue formal objections and hearings in probate court. Clear communication and step-by-step planning guide clients through filing, discovery, negotiations, and hearings as needed in Los Angeles County.
Step One: Initial Review and Consultation
The initial review focuses on examining the will and any related documents to determine whether a contest is likely to be merited. During consultation we gather facts about the testator, the circumstances surrounding execution, and known witnesses. This stage also identifies statutory deadlines and immediate steps to preserve evidence. A realistic assessment is provided about potential paths forward and what information will be needed to support a claim. Early planning helps avoid missed opportunities and sets a clear path for investigation and potential filing in probate court.
Document Examination
Document review includes inspecting the will, any prior versions, codicils, and related estate planning papers. Financial records, bank statements, property records, and correspondence may reveal facts about intent and transactions. Medical records and caregiver notes can shed light on the testator’s condition near the date of execution. Careful comparison of documents and dates helps identify inconsistencies or suspicious changes. Preserving originals and creating organized copies supports both negotiation and litigation preparation, and helps ensure that important evidence is available when needed for probate filings or hearings.
Client Interview and Case Planning
A thorough client interview gathers details about relationships, prior communications, and any events that may bear on the will. We document timelines, identify potential witnesses, and discuss realistic outcomes and goals. This conversation informs the investigative plan, including what records to request and which individuals to contact. Clear expectations are set regarding likely timelines, possible costs, and alternative dispute resolution. This collaborative planning stage helps clients make informed choices about pursuing a challenge and ensures that the next steps are coordinated efficiently in preparation for filings or settlement efforts.
Step Two: Filing and Evidence Gathering
If the initial review supports a challenge, the next phase involves preparing and filing formal objections or petitions in probate court within the applicable deadlines. Simultaneously, evidence collection begins in earnest through document requests, witness interviews, and retrieval of medical and financial records. This stage often includes coordination with third parties to secure statements and records that substantiate claims. A methodical approach to gathering and organizing evidence improves the ability to present a coherent case in negotiations or before a judge, and helps prevent surprises during discovery or hearings.
Preparing Formal Objections
Preparing formal objections requires drafting pleadings that clearly state the legal grounds for contest and the factual basis supporting those allegations. Pleadings must comply with California probate rules and be filed in the correct court within established timeframes. Supporting documents and declarations are often attached to provide context and initial evidence. Properly framed objections set the stage for discovery and any subsequent hearings, so attention to detail in this phase is important to ensure legal sufficiency and to preserve procedural rights during the ongoing probate process.
Collecting Supporting Evidence
Collecting supporting evidence includes assembling medical records, obtaining witness declarations, securing financial documents, and preserving any electronic communications relevant to the will. For capacity claims, contemporaneous medical evaluations and treatment records are particularly important. For undue influence, documentation of interactions, financial transfers, and changes in the testator’s routine can be persuasive. A systematic evidence plan helps ensure facts are documented in a defensible way, supports effective settlement discussions, and readies the case for presentation at hearings or trial if necessary.
Step Three: Negotiation and Court Proceedings
After filings and evidence gathering, parties often engage in negotiation, mediation, or settlement talks to resolve disputes without a full trial. When resolution is not possible, the matter proceeds to hearings and potentially trial in probate court. Preparation for litigation includes witness preparation, trial exhibits, and legal briefs addressing applicable law. Throughout, opportunities for settlement are evaluated to preserve estate value and limit emotional strain. Court proceedings follow established procedures and timelines, and the outcome depends on the strength of the evidence and legal arguments presented to the judge.
Negotiation and Mediation
Negotiation and mediation can achieve resolutions that preserve relationships and reduce costs compared to a trial. These processes involve structured discussions, exchange of key information, and facilitation by a neutral mediator when appropriate. Parties can explore creative solutions not available through a court ruling and can tailor agreements to meet varied interests. Successful mediation requires preparation, realistic expectations, and a willingness to compromise. When settlement looks feasible, focusing on communication and realistic outcomes often leads to faster, less adversarial solutions for Hollywood families facing will disputes.
Hearings and Trial Preparation
If a matter moves to court, careful preparation for hearings and trial is essential. This includes organizing exhibits, preparing witness testimony, and drafting legal briefs that address statutory and case law relevant to the contest. Witnesses may be deposed and evidence authenticated to withstand scrutiny. Trial preparation also involves logistical planning for presentation and anticipating opposing arguments. While trials are less frequent than negotiated resolutions, being fully prepared ensures your position is presented clearly and persuasively to the probate court when formal adjudication becomes necessary.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Will Challenges in Hollywood
What are common grounds for challenging a will in Hollywood?
Common grounds for challenging a will include questions about the testator’s mental capacity at the time of signing, allegations that the will was the product of undue influence or coercion, claims of fraud or misrepresentation, and defects in how the will was executed such as missing signatures or improper witnessing. Each ground requires factual proof that supports why the document should not be followed. Collecting contemporaneous records, witness statements, and other documentation is critical to show why a legal challenge is warranted. The specific facts determine the strength of any claim in probate proceedings.
How long do I have to file a will contest in California?
In California, strict timelines govern the right to contest a will, and acting quickly after learning that a will has been admitted to probate is important. Typically a formal contest must be initiated within a set period following admission of the will, and missing that deadline often eliminates the ability to challenge. There can be limited exceptions based on notice issues or other procedural grounds, but those are narrow. Early consultation and prompt evidence preservation increase the chances of meeting deadlines and preserving legal remedies in Los Angeles County courts.
Can will disputes be resolved without going to trial?
Yes. Many will disputes are resolved through settlement negotiations or mediation instead of a court trial. Alternative dispute resolution methods can save time, reduce costs, and reduce family conflict by allowing parties to reach agreements that may not be available through litigation. Mediation uses a neutral facilitator to guide discussions and identify potential compromises, while direct negotiation can sometimes resolve differences when communication is constructive. These paths are often preferable when parties are willing to work toward a mutually acceptable outcome and avoid the uncertainty of a trial.
What types of evidence support a will challenge?
Evidence that may support a will challenge includes medical records demonstrating impaired capacity, witness statements regarding the testator’s mental state or circumstances, financial records showing suspicious transfers or control, and any communications that suggest coercion or fraud. Handwriting analysis, forged documents, and proof of improper execution can also be relevant. The type and strength of evidence required depends on the asserted grounds, and gathering corroborating documentation early helps build a credible case for negotiation or court presentation in Los Angeles County.
How much does it cost to challenge a will?
The cost of challenging a will varies with complexity, the extent of discovery, and whether the dispute settles or proceeds to trial. Some cases resolve quickly through mediation or negotiation and incur lower fees, while contested litigation with depositions, expert evidence, and trial preparation increases cost. Discussing fee structures and likely expense ranges early helps you plan financially. It is common to weigh potential recovery against projected costs and to explore alternatives that limit spending while protecting important legal rights and options.
What happens if a will is declared invalid?
If a probate court declares a will invalid, the estate may be distributed according to a prior valid will if one exists, or according to California’s intestate succession rules if no prior will is available. This can significantly change beneficiaries’ entitlements and the administration of assets. The court’s ruling aims to ensure distribution aligns with lawful criteria. Understanding the possible outcomes and their implications for inheritance and estate administration is important for all interested parties as they consider whether to pursue or defend a will challenge.
Who can file a challenge to a will in California?
Typically, interested persons such as heirs, beneficiaries, or sometimes creditors have standing to challenge a will in California. Standing depends on whether a party has a direct economic interest or legal right affected by the probate outcome. If you are named in the will, would inherit under a prior will, or have other recognized legal interest, you may be able to file a contest. Determining standing early is important because only those with proper status can pursue or maintain a contest in probate court.
How should I begin if I suspect undue influence?
If you suspect undue influence, begin by preserving any relevant records and documenting your observations and any interactions that suggest pressure was applied to the testator. Collect witness contact information, secure medical or caregiver records, and note any sudden or unexplained changes to the will. Early documentation and preservation increase the ability to present a coherent account later. Seeking a legal review promptly helps identify immediate steps to protect rights and to determine whether mediation or formal filing is advisable given the facts and timelines.
What role does probate court play in a will contest?
Probate court supervises the admission of wills, oversees estate administration, and adjudicates disputes about validity and distribution. In a will contest, the probate court examines filings, rules on procedural matters, evaluates evidence, and issues orders resolving the dispute according to California law. The court enforces filing deadlines, manages discovery and hearings, and makes determinations about whether a will should be upheld, modified, or set aside. Familiarity with local probate procedures and timelines helps parties navigate filings and present their positions effectively.
Can prior wills affect the outcome of a challenge?
Prior wills can be highly relevant when a newer document is contested, because a court may determine that an earlier valid will reflects the decedent’s true intent if the later will is invalidated. If a previous will can be located and authenticated, the court may order distribution according to that document. In the absence of any valid will, California’s intestate succession rules govern distribution. Part of contest strategy involves locating and preserving any prior estate planning documents that could influence the court’s decision about proper distribution of assets.