New York Estate Litigation Attorneys

We represent clients in a wide range of estate and trust disputes, including:

Will Contests

Challenging or defending the validity of a will based on:

• Undue influence
• Lack of testamentary capacity
• Fraud or forgery
• Improper execution

Trust Disputes

Resolving conflicts involving trust terms, administration, and distributions, including breaches of fiduciary duty by trustees.

Fiduciary Misconduct & Removal

Taking action against executors, administrators, or trustees who:

• Mismanage assets
• Engage in self-dealing
• Fail to provide proper accountings
• Act against the interests of beneficiaries

Accounting Proceedings

Demanding formal accountings to review how estate or trust assets have been handled.

Beneficiary Rights & Inheritance Disputes

Protecting the rights of heirs and beneficiaries in contested estates.

Contested Probate & Administration

Handling objections during probate proceedings and disputes over the appointment of executors or administrators.

Estate litigation often arises from:

• Family conflicts over asset distribution
• Suspected undue influence by caregivers or third parties
• Questions about the mental capacity of the decedent
• Missing or conflicting estate planning documents
• Lack of transparency from executors or trustees
• Disputes over trust terms or asset management

Our goal is to resolve disputes efficiently while protecting your financial interests and legal rights.

We guide clients through every stage of estate litigation:

1. Case Evaluation and Strategy
   Reviewing estate documents, financial records, and relevant facts to assess the strength of your claim.
2. Pre-Litigation Negotiation
   Attempting to resolve disputes through settlement when appropriate.
3. Filing Objections or Claims
   Initiating or responding to formal proceedings in Surrogate’s Court.
4. Discovery and Evidence Gathering
   Obtaining documents, financial records, and testimony to support your position.
5. Court Hearings and Trial
   Advocating for your interests in contested proceedings.
6. Resolution and Enforcement
   Securing favorable outcomes through settlement or court judgment.

• Beneficiaries and heirs
• Executors and estate administrators
• Trustees and trust beneficiaries
• Family members involved in estate disputes
• Individuals contesting or defending a will
• Parties involved in fiduciary conflicts

Estate disputes involve both legal complexity and personal dynamics. Experienced counsel helps:

• Protect your inheritance and financial interests
• Hold fiduciaries accountable for misconduct
• Navigate Surrogate’s Court procedures effectively
• Build strong, evidence-based claims or defenses
• Resolve disputes as efficiently as possible

What is a will contest?

A will contest is a legal challenge to the validity of a will based on issues such as undue influence, lack of capacity, or improper execution.

How do I know if I have grounds to challenge a will?

You may have grounds if there is evidence of fraud, coercion, lack of mental capacity, or irregularities in how the will was executed.

Can an executor be removed?

Yes. Executors can be removed for misconduct, mismanagement, conflicts of interest, or failure to fulfill their duties.

How long does estate litigation take?

It varies depending on the complexity of the case and whether it settles or proceeds to trial.

Can estate disputes be settled without going to court?

Yes. Many disputes are resolved through negotiation or mediation, though court involvement may still be required.