Overview

The ABCs of a Will Contest – A Practice Guide for Pennsylvania Lawyers is an invaluable practice tool for any lawyer contesting a will in Pennsylvania. It begins with a procedural guide to contesting a will before the register of wills and the Orphans’ Court and continues with an in-depth analysis of the various bases for bringing a will contest. The guide also includes practice tips on which party has the burden of proof, what a party must prove to carry that burden, and what evidence is admissible. Practice forms are also included. No lawyer bringing a will contest in Pennsylvania should be without this guide.

Summary of Contents:

• Contesting a Will—An Overview
• Contesting the Admission of a Will to Probate
• Basic Evidentiary Rules
• Grounds for Contesting the Will— Lack of Proper Execution or Testamentary Intent
• Grounds for Contesting the Will— Lack of Testamentary Capacity
• Grounds for Contesting the Will—Undue Influence
• Grounds for Contesting the Will—Fraud, Mistake, and  Forgery
• Grounds for Contesting the Will—Construction of the Will
• Revocation as an Issue in Contesting a Will
• Breach of Contract to Create a Will
• Mediation and Family Settlement Agreements

Authors

Edward L. Perkins, JD, LLM (Tax), CPA
Gibson & Perkins, PC, Media

Paul Fellman, JD
Gibson & Perkins, PC, Media