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A Practical Guide to Addressing Undue Influence in Estate Planning
Undue influence in the context of wills and trusts can upend careful estate planning and strain family relationships. In Oak View, California, individuals and families turn to LA Estate Plans for clear guidance when a document’s authenticity or fairness is in doubt. This guide explains how undue influence is identified, what signs to watch for, and the legal pathways available to protect a decedent’s true intentions. We focus on realistic steps for gathering evidence, preserving relationships where possible, and pursuing the right legal response when manipulation is suspected, always mindful of California probate procedures and timelines.
When someone suspects a loved one’s will or trust was created under pressure, the emotional stakes are high and the legal questions are complex. Oak View residents benefit from early, methodical review of the circumstances around a document’s execution, including who was present, what documents were changed, and whether the decedent’s decision-making capacity was clear. Prompt action can preserve important evidence and improve chances of an effective resolution. LA Estate Plans aims to provide straightforward options so families can decide whether negotiation, mediation, or court action best serves their goals and preserves the decedent’s intended distribution.
Why Addressing Undue Influence Protects Family Intentions
Addressing undue influence protects the integrity of estate plans and reduces the likelihood of prolonged disputes that drain assets and relationships. In Oak View, early review and focused action preserve available evidence, prevent rushed settlements, and support outcomes that reflect the true wishes of the decedent. Families gain clarity about potential vulnerabilities in estate documents and practical steps to reinforce legitimate testamentary decisions. Whether the goal is a negotiated settlement or litigation, careful attention to these matters also reduces emotional stress and can streamline probate administration, allowing heirs to move forward with a fairer distribution of assets.
About LA Estate Plans and Our Oak View Practice
LA Estate Plans serves Oak View and surrounding Ventura County with focused practice in wills, trusts, and probate matters. Our approach emphasizes direct communication with families, careful fact-finding, and measured legal strategies that reflect each client’s priorities. We assist clients in assessing evidence, drafting clear pleadings when needed, and pursuing settlement or court resolution that upholds a decedent’s true intentions. Clients value straightforward explanations of California probate rules and timelines so they can make informed decisions about how to proceed when undue influence is suspected.
Understanding Undue Influence and Legal Remedies
Undue influence arises when pressure, manipulation, or isolation leads a person to make testamentary choices that do not reflect their free will. In Oak View and across California, courts examine relationships, the circumstances surrounding signing, and the mental state of the person who made the will or trust to determine whether influence played an improper role. Challenges typically require gathering witness statements, medical records, and other documentation that show a shift away from previously expressed intentions. Timely attention to these facts is essential to preserve claims and avoid procedural forfeiture in probate court.
Legal remedies for undue influence include filing a will contest, challenging changes to a trust, or pursuing other probate claims that seek to invalidate improperly influenced provisions. Available options depend on the evidence and the specific documents involved. Sometimes parties resolve disputes through mediation or negotiated settlement, while other matters require litigation to establish the decedent’s true intentions. Throughout this process, Oak View families should focus on preserving relevant records, communicating key facts to counsel promptly, and understanding statutory deadlines that apply to will contests and related claims in California.
Defining Undue Influence in Estate Law
Undue influence occurs when one person uses manipulation, coercion, or deceptive tactics to cause another to act contrary to their genuine wishes, particularly in the creation or amendment of wills and trusts. Courts look for evidence such as isolation of the decedent, sudden changes favoring a particular person, suspicious circumstances around document signing, and the presence of a confidential relationship. Identifying undue influence requires a careful review of the context, timelines, and interactions that led to the estate planning decisions, and may involve testimony from witnesses familiar with the decedent’s prior intentions.
Key Elements and Legal Processes in Undue Influence Claims
To prove undue influence, parties generally collect evidence showing a confidential relationship, the vulnerability of the person making the will or trust, and suspicious circumstances surrounding the document’s execution. Investigation often involves comparing prior estate planning documents, interviewing witnesses, and obtaining medical or caregiving records that reflect the decedent’s condition. Legal procedures include filing a contest during probate, seeking removal of improperly appointed fiduciaries, or challenging trust amendments. The goal is to demonstrate that the challenged provisions do not reflect the true intentions of the person who created the estate plan.
Important Terms to Know About Undue Influence
Familiarity with key terms clarifies the legal discussion and assists families in Oak View when reviewing estate documents. Knowing the distinction between testamentary capacity and undue influence, understanding probate timelines, and recognizing the meaning of a will contest or trust contest helps parties take timely action. This knowledge also aids in collecting relevant evidence and discussing options with counsel. Being prepared and informed about common legal terms contributes to better decision-making and more effective protection of a decedent’s true wishes under California law.
Undue Influence
Undue influence describes situations in which a person exerts excessive pressure or manipulative control over another, leading that individual to make decisions that do not reflect their genuine will when drafting or changing estate planning documents. Indicators can include isolation, sudden favoritism toward one beneficiary, or reliance on a caregiver who benefits from the changes. Understanding this term helps families identify potential red flags and gather the kinds of evidence that courts consider relevant when reviewing contested wills and trusts in probate proceedings.
Probate
Probate is the court-supervised process for administering a deceased person’s estate, which typically includes validating the will, appointing a personal representative, paying debts, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. Challenges to a will on grounds such as undue influence are generally raised during probate, where evidence is presented to determine whether the document reflects the decedent’s true intentions. Probate timelines and procedural requirements are strictly enforced in California, and parties should act quickly to preserve their rights to contest or defend estate documents.
Testamentary Capacity
Testamentary capacity refers to the mental ability required for a person to validly make or change a will, including understanding the nature and extent of their assets, recognizing potential beneficiaries, and appreciating the effect of their decisions. If there is evidence that a person lacked sufficient clarity or understanding when executing a document, that lack of capacity can support a challenge alongside or separate from undue influence claims. Medical records, witness testimony, and observations about behavior around the time of signing are commonly used to assess capacity.
Will Contest
A will contest is a legal action filed during probate to challenge the validity of a will on various grounds, such as undue influence, lack of testamentary capacity, or improper execution. The challenger bears the burden of presenting evidence that undermines the will’s validity. Remedies can include invalidating specific provisions, reverting to a prior valid will, or having the estate distributed according to intestacy laws. Timely initiation of a contest is important, as procedural deadlines in California can bar late claims.
Comparing Legal Paths: Negotiation, Mediation, and Litigation
When undue influence concerns arise, families in Oak View may choose informal negotiation, mediation, or formal litigation. Negotiation and mediation can preserve relationships and reduce cost and delay when parties are willing to communicate. Litigation offers a path to a definitive court ruling when evidence strongly supports a claim and settlement is unlikely. Deciding among these options depends on the strength of evidence, the willingness of parties to cooperate, and the desired finality. An early assessment helps identify the most appropriate path for protecting the decedent’s intentions while considering time, expense, and emotional impact.
When Limited Intervention May Resolve the Issue:
Clear Documentation Supporting Intent
If a will or trust is supported by extensive documentation showing consistent intentions over time, limited legal action may suffice to address challenges. Examples include multiple prior drafts aligning with the latest document, contemporaneous notes or recordings that confirm the decedent’s wishes, and reliable witness testimony attesting to a stable testamentary plan. In such situations, resolving the issue through targeted negotiation or informal validation can avoid prolonged proceedings and help distribute assets in a manner consistent with the decedent’s recorded intentions.
Willingness to Negotiate Among Parties
When all relevant parties are willing to engage in candid negotiation or mediation, a limited approach can quickly and economically resolve the dispute. Open communication about evidence, a neutral facilitator, and clear priorities often allow families to reach agreements that honor the decedent’s intent while minimizing court involvement. This path is especially effective when emotional stakes can be managed and when parties value preserving relationships and avoiding the public exposure that comes with formal litigation in probate court.
Why a Thorough Legal Approach May Be Necessary:
Complicated Family Dynamics
When multiple family members have conflicting claims or when relationships are strained, a comprehensive legal approach helps ensure each claim is fairly evaluated. Complex dynamics often involve overlapping narratives, competing documentation, and strong emotions that require thorough investigation and careful case development. In those circumstances, methodical collection of evidence, detailed witness interviews, and a clear litigation plan provide structure for resolving disputes and achieving an outcome that reflects the decedent’s intent while protecting the rights of all interested parties.
Significant Evidence of Manipulation
When there is substantial indication of manipulation, coercion, or suspicious circumstances surrounding a document’s execution, comprehensive legal action is often required to effectively challenge the provisions in question. This includes obtaining and preserving records, securing witness statements, and preparing for court presentation. A thorough approach increases the likelihood that a court will consider all relevant facts and make a decision that restores the decedent’s true testamentary intent, while limiting opportunities for later challenges or misinterpretations of evidence.
Advantages of a Thorough Review and Response
A comprehensive approach provides a full assessment of the facts, potential legal claims, and probable outcomes. It reduces the risk that important evidence will be overlooked, helps frame realistic expectations for settlement or litigation, and supports strategic decisions about whether to pursue court action. For Oak View families, comprehensive review also means assessing nonlegal factors such as family dynamics and long-term administration needs, so that any resolution is practical and sustainable for those who will carry out the estate plan.
Thorough preparation increases the chance of a fair and lasting resolution by documenting the decedent’s prior wishes, clarifying inconsistencies, and presenting a coherent narrative to other parties or the court. It can deter frivolous claims, streamline discovery, and facilitate settlements that reflect the decedent’s intentions. This level of care also supports post-resolution administration by anticipating issues that might arise and recommending protective measures to prevent future disputes over the estate or trust.
Improved Evidence Preservation and Presentation
Comprehensive handling ensures that key documents, witness statements, and medical or caregiving records are identified and preserved before they are lost or altered. Effective presentation of evidence to opposing parties or the court can clarify the decedent’s intent and demonstrate whether improper pressure influenced decision-making. This preparation can be particularly important in close cases where timelines and small details can determine whether a will or trust provision stands or is set aside in probate proceedings.
Clear Legal Strategy and Case Management
A comprehensive strategy outlines the likely steps, resources, and expected outcomes so families can make informed choices about pursuing settlement or litigation. Clear case management coordinates evidence collection, communications with other parties, and compliance with California probate rules and deadlines. Knowing the plan reduces uncertainty, helps control costs, and provides measurable milestones for resolving the dispute while protecting the intended distribution of the decedent’s estate.
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Practical Tips to Prevent Undue Influence
Keep Clear Records of Intent
Maintaining contemporaneous notes, letters, or recorded statements that reflect a person’s long‑standing intentions can be one of the most effective ways to defend against claims of undue influence. Clear documentation showing consistent decisions about beneficiaries and asset distribution reduces ambiguity and provides a factual baseline for comparison with later documents. Encourage loved ones to store dated drafts and to record discussions with trusted family members so that those records are available if questions arise during probate or estate administration.
Discuss Plans with Trusted People
Act Promptly When You Have Concerns
If you suspect undue influence, timely action is important to preserve evidence and meet statutory deadlines for contests. Early steps include gathering records, noting who was present at the signing, and securing medical or caregiving documentation that may bear on capacity. Prompt consultation helps clarify potential remedies and prevents loss of rights due to procedural time bars, making it more likely that appropriate measures can be taken to protect the decedent’s true testamentary wishes during probate or trust administration.
When to Seek Review for Potential Undue Influence
You should consider a formal review when a will or trust suddenly benefits someone new, when the decedent was isolated from prior confidants, or when medical records suggest diminished clarity. Changes made quickly before death, inconsistent drafts, or missing witnesses at the signing are signs that warrant closer inspection. A timely review helps determine whether informal resolution is possible or whether a formal contest is necessary to safeguard rightful inheritance and the decedent’s documented intentions under California law.
Seeking review is also appropriate when emotional or financial vulnerability may have been exploited by a caregiver, companion, or advisor, or when someone who stood to gain disproportionately was unusually involved in the estate planning process. Even when proof is not immediately obvious, identifying inconsistencies and preserving evidence early improves the chances of addressing concerns successfully, whether through negotiation or in probate court. Early legal involvement ensures procedural steps are followed and deadlines are met.
Common Situations That Trigger Undue Influence Claims
Typical scenarios include last‑minute changes that deviate sharply from prior plans, isolation of the person preparing the estate documents, sudden appointments of unfamiliar fiduciaries, and signs that a caregiver or relative exerted disproportionate control over decisions. Questions about the decedent’s mental capacity at the time of signing also frequently accompany undue influence claims. Recognizing these patterns allows families to collect relevant evidence and act before critical probate deadlines expire.
Sudden, Unexplained Changes to a Will
When a will or trust is altered shortly before death to favor one person without a clear, documented rationale, that change can raise immediate concerns. The absence of prior drafts reflecting similar intentions, or testimony from close friends who contradict the newer document, can support a claim that the change was not the decedent’s authentic choice. Investigating the circumstances and collecting supporting evidence early helps clarify whether the modification reflects undue influence or a legitimate shift in intent.
Isolation from Usual Support Network
Isolation of the person making estate decisions, especially in the final months or weeks of life, increases the risk that a single individual can exert disproportionate influence. When long-standing family contacts are kept away or not consulted, and when decision-making falls to one caregiver or companion, it is important to document who had access, who advised the decedent, and whether appointments or changes coincided with that isolation. This information can be pivotal in assessing claims of improper pressure.
Questions About Mental Clarity
Concerns about a decedent’s mental clarity or decision-making ability at the time documents were signed are central to many undue influence claims. Medical records, neurologic evaluations, medication histories, and witness observations about confusion or memory loss can all inform whether testamentary capacity was present. If capacity is unclear, collecting contemporaneous medical documentation and testimony is essential to establish whether the person truly understood the nature and consequences of the estate planning decisions they made.
We’re Here to Help Oak View Families
Why Oak View Families Choose LA Estate Plans
Families select our firm for clear communication, thorough case preparation, and a focus on results that reflect the decedent’s stated wishes. We guide clients through procedural requirements, evidence collection, and settlement discussions while explaining the impact of each choice on timeframes and costs. Our approach aims to reduce stress during probate by providing practical steps and realistic expectations based on the circumstances at hand.
We emphasize careful documentation and methodical review to ensure that claims are supported by admissible evidence. That attention to detail helps clients assess the viability of informal resolution versus court action and positions their case for the most favorable outcome available under California law. Our practice prioritizes respectful handling of family dynamics while advocating for outcomes that honor the decedent’s intentions.
Clients benefit from timely advice about probate deadlines, preservation of crucial records, and strategic planning for settlement or trial. We assist in coordinating witness statements, obtaining medical records, and preparing necessary pleadings when a contest becomes necessary. Clear planning and careful follow‑through help families navigate what can be an emotional and complex process with practical support at every step.
Contact LA Estate Plans in Oak View to Discuss Your Concerns
How We Handle Undue Influence Matters
Our process begins with listening to your account, reviewing the relevant documents, and identifying immediate steps to preserve evidence. We then outline realistic options, which may include negotiation, mediation, or initiating a probate contest. At each stage we explain required filings and timelines under California law, coordinate the collection of records and witness statements, and prepare for settlement discussions or courtroom proceedings as needed. This structured approach helps clients move from uncertainty to a clear plan of action.
Step One: Initial Evaluation and Preservation
The first step is a focused evaluation of documents, witness contacts, and any medical or caregiving records that could affect a claim. We advise on immediate preservation measures, such as securing originals, collecting emails or messages, and documenting who was present at signing events. Early preservation prevents loss of critical evidence and sets the stage for an effective review of options under California probate rules.
Client Interview and Timeline Development
We conduct a detailed interview to construct a timeline of events surrounding the document in question, including prior estate plans, who advised the decedent, and who was present at signings. Building a clear chronology helps identify inconsistencies, witnesses, and potential sources of influence. A carefully developed timeline also guides evidence collection and informs whether informal resolution or formal contest is the most appropriate path.
Document Collection and Forensic Review
Collecting original wills, trusts, drafts, medical records, and correspondence is an essential part of early review. Where appropriate, we look for signatures, witness attestations, and notarizations that may affect validity. This stage may include a forensic review of documents to spot alterations or suspicious timing, and helps determine the strength of any claim concerning undue influence or capacity issues under California law.
Step Two: Strategy and Negotiation
After assessing the facts and available evidence, we develop a tailored strategy that balances legal strength with the family’s goals. Where possible, we pursue negotiation or mediation to resolve disputes efficiently and preserve relationships. When settlement is unlikely or the evidence strongly supports a contest, we prepare the necessary pleadings and continue to gather supporting materials in anticipation of formal probate proceedings.
Evaluating Settlement Options
We present realistic settlement scenarios, explaining the tradeoffs between avoiding litigation and pursuing a definitive court ruling. Settlement discussions consider costs, confidentiality, and the desired outcome for asset distribution. When parties are open to dialogue, mediated resolution can often achieve fair results with less expense and emotional toll than a contested probate case, while still protecting the decedent’s stated intentions.
Preparing for Formal Proceedings
If settlement proves unattainable, we prepare for probate contest or trust litigation by drafting and filing timely pleadings, completing necessary disclosures, and lining up witnesses and documentary evidence. Thorough preparation includes anticipating defenses and developing a coherent narrative for court presentation to show whether undue influence or lack of capacity affected the document’s validity under California law.
Step Three: Resolution and Follow-Up
The final phase focuses on resolving the dispute and ensuring orderly administration of the estate following the court’s decision or a settlement agreement. That includes assisting with distribution of assets, addressing any remaining fiduciary matters, and recommending practices to reduce future disputes. Post-resolution guidance also covers safeguards to prevent recurrence and advice for those administering the estate to proceed efficiently and lawfully.
Court Proceedings and Hearings
When a contested matter proceeds to court, we present evidence and witness testimony to support claims or defenses regarding undue influence or capacity issues. Court hearings evaluate the admissibility and weight of evidence and, ultimately, determine whether challenged provisions should stand. Careful courtroom preparation and clear presentation of facts help the judge reach a decision that best reflects the decedent’s true intentions within California probate standards.
Post‑Resolution Administration and Protections
After a resolution, we assist with implementing the court’s decision or settlement terms, including distributing assets, updating records, and advising fiduciaries on compliance. We also suggest protective measures for future planning, such as clearer documentation of intent, independent witnesses, and periodic review of estate plans to reduce the possibility of similar disputes arising later. These steps help families move forward with confidence and fewer lingering uncertainties.
The Proof is in Our Performance
Frequently Asked Questions About Undue Influence in Oak View
What is undue influence and how does it affect a will?
Undue influence occurs when someone uses pressure, manipulation, or exploitation to cause another person to make a testamentary decision that does not reflect their true wishes. This can involve isolating the decedent, controlling access to advisors or family, or exerting emotional or financial pressure to alter beneficiary designations. In probate proceedings, a claim of undue influence seeks to show that a will or trust was the product of improper persuasion rather than the independent intent of the person who created it. To evaluate such a claim, courts look at the totality of circumstances, including relationships, changes in prior plans, the presence or absence of independent witnesses, and any evidence of vulnerability or diminished capacity. Proving undue influence requires assembling relevant records and witness testimony to show that the challenged provisions likely resulted from improper pressure rather than the decedent’s honest choices. Early preservation of evidence improves the ability to present a persuasive case.
What signs should I look for that suggest undue influence occurred?
Common signs of undue influence include sudden, unexplained changes to estate documents that disproportionately favor one person, isolation of the decedent from their usual support network, and appointments of unfamiliar fiduciaries or caregivers who benefit from the changes. Other indicators are conflicting testimony from long-time friends or advisors and a lack of independent witnesses at the time of signing. Noticing these signs early helps families take steps to preserve evidence. Documentation such as prior wills, emails, medical records, and witness statements can corroborate these signs. Evidence that the decedent lacked access to independent counsel or was subject to coercive pressure during document execution further supports concerns. Compiling this information quickly can preserve key facts needed for negotiation or a formal contest in probate court.
Can trusts be challenged for undue influence as well as wills?
Yes, trusts can be challenged on grounds similar to wills when there is reason to believe they were created or modified under undue influence. Trusts often include amendments or restatements, and suspicious timing or unexplained changes that favor a particular individual can give rise to challenges. Because trusts may be managed outside of public probate records, prompt investigation is important to secure relevant documents and communications. Challenging a trust requires gathering evidence about the settlor’s intent, the conditions under which changes were made, and any patterns of manipulation or isolation. Legal claims can include seeking to set aside trust provisions, remove a trustee, or obtain other remedies that restore the settlor’s original intent. Early preservation of trust records and communications improves the chances of an effective resolution.
How quickly must I act if I want to contest a will in California?
In California, there are strict deadlines for contesting a will or raising certain challenges during probate, including a 120-day period after a will is first filed with the probate court to file a creditor’s or contestant’s notice. Missing statutory deadlines can forfeit the right to contest. Because these timelines are precise and can vary with circumstances, prompt review and action are essential once a possible undue influence issue is discovered. If you suspect undue influence, begin by gathering documentation and consulting with counsel without delay so that required filings can be prepared and served on time. Early steps commonly include requesting the probate court file, preserving originals of contested documents, and identifying witnesses and medical records that may support a claim within the relevant deadlines.
What types of evidence are useful in proving undue influence?
Useful evidence in undue influence matters includes prior wills or trust drafts, emails or messages reflecting the decedent’s stated wishes, medical and caregiving records that speak to vulnerability or capacity, and witness statements about who was present during document preparation and signing. Documentation of sudden transfers or unusual financial transactions may also be relevant. Photographs, appointment logs, and independent testimony about isolation or behavioral changes can strengthen a case. Corroborating evidence that shows a departure from long-standing intentions is particularly persuasive. Medical records showing cognitive decline, records of who accessed the decedent, and statements from neutral third parties can all support a claim that the decedent’s free will was compromised. Organizing and preserving these materials early is important for successful presentation in negotiation or court.
Is mediation a good way to resolve undue influence disputes?
Mediation can be an effective way to resolve undue influence disputes when parties are willing to discuss evidence and negotiate a settlement. A neutral mediator facilitates communication, helps clarify the disputed issues, and can guide parties toward agreements that reflect the decedent’s wishes without the time and expense of litigation. Mediation is often useful when relationships matter and confidentiality is desired. However, mediation may not be appropriate if one side has overwhelming evidence of manipulation or if parties are unwilling to negotiate in good faith. In those cases, litigation may be necessary to obtain a definitive court determination. Deciding whether to mediate depends on the strength of the evidence, the goals of the parties, and whether a settlement can realistically honor the decedent’s intentions.
What happens to the estate if undue influence is proven?
If undue influence is proven, a court may invalidate the affected provisions of a will or trust, which can result in reverting to a prior valid document or distributing assets according to intestate succession rules. Other remedies include removing or replacing fiduciaries who benefited from the undue influence, awarding restitution, or modifying the estate administration to reflect legitimate beneficiaries. The precise outcome depends on the strength of evidence and the particular facts presented in probate court. A successful claim restores distribution consistent with the decedent’s true intentions as best the court can determine. It can also deter future improper conduct and provide a measure of closure to family members who were disadvantaged by the influenced document, while ensuring estate assets are administered and distributed lawfully under California rules.
How can I protect my loved one’s estate from undue influence?
To protect an estate from undue influence, encourage transparent estate planning practices such as involving multiple trusted advisors, documenting discussions of intent, and using independent witnesses or counsel during execution. Keeping clear, dated records of prior wills and notes about the reasons for changes helps demonstrate consistent intent over time. Regular reviews of estate plans with trusted, independent advisors can also reduce the risk that last-minute, coercive changes will go unquestioned. Ensuring the person making the estate plan has ongoing access to family, friends, and neutral advisors reduces isolation and the chance that one individual can control decisions. When changes are necessary, having an independent attorney or a neutral third party present at signing provides useful protection against later challenges and helps ensure that the document reflects genuine intent.
Who usually files a will contest and what are the risks?
Typically, disappointed beneficiaries, successors named in prior documents, or interested parties such as close family members file a will contest when they believe undue influence occurred. Filing a contest involves risk, including potential litigation costs, strained family relationships, and uncertain outcomes if evidence is weak. Parties should weigh the likelihood of success, the emotional toll of litigation, and the potential recovery when deciding to file a formal challenge. Before filing, it is often beneficial to attempt negotiation or mediation to see if an acceptable resolution is possible. If litigation becomes necessary, preparing a thorough evidentiary record and understanding procedural deadlines and burdens of proof in California probate are important to improving the chances of a favorable resolution.
How can LA Estate Plans help with undue influence concerns in Oak View?
LA Estate Plans assists Oak View clients by reviewing estate documents, identifying potential signs of undue influence, and outlining practical steps to preserve evidence and meet California deadlines. We help families determine whether negotiation, mediation, or court action best serves their goals, coordinate the collection of medical and documentary records, and prepare the necessary probate filings when a contest is warranted. Our focus is on clear communication and realistic assessments of likely outcomes. We also support clients through settlement discussions, court proceedings, and post-resolution administration, offering guidance on protecting the estate from future disputes. By helping families preserve key records, interview witnesses, and present a coherent case, we aim to secure results that reflect the decedent’s true intentions and promote fair distribution of assets.