Cleveland Inheritance Disputes Lawyers

When inheritance disputes arise, it can cause upheaval amongst family members. What people believe they are entitled to and what is actually stated in a will or trust can differ greatly. When an inheritance dispute does arise, it is important to take quick legal action to prevent an abuse of the estate and to preserve family relationships.

At Russo, Rosalina & Co., LPA, we take a proactive and pragmatic approach when handling inheritance-dispute issues. We look at the human and legal components surrounding these issues. If you have a probate issue that requires experience and sensitivity, please do not hesitate to contact us today to schedule a consultation at our Mayfield Heights or Parma offices.

Resolving Inheritance Disputes

An inheritance dispute can arise from a wide variety of circumstances, including:

• If someone believes he or she was unintentionally left out of a will
• If someone contests the contents of the will or trust because they believe the deceased was incompetent at the time the document was drafted and executed
• If someone believes their inheritance should be the same or more than someone else’s
• If someone believes their inheritance has been wrongfully denied to them
• If someone’s inheritance is not given to them because of an issue with concealed assets or mishandling of assets on the part of the person trusted to administer the will or trust

How Can You Resolve An Inheritance Dispute Matter In Ohio?

Settling estate disputes in Ohio can be complex, but there are several options available. Here are some standard methods we use to help our clients address the legal challenges they face:

• Mediation: This method involves a neutral third party facilitating a conversation between disputing sides to reach a mutually agreeable resolution. This can be particularly effective in cases where emotional stakes are high and preserving family relationships is crucial.
• Settlement negotiations: Our experienced team works directly with other parties to reach a compromise and ensure you receive a fair and reasonable settlement.
• Litigation: When other methods fail, we stand ready to take your case to court. We will present your case before a judge, advocating for your rights and interests.
• Arbitration: This approach is similar to a court trial but less formal, more streamlined and cost-effective. Here, a neutral third party will hear both sides and make a binding decision.

Our team of dedicated lawyers brings years of experience in Cleveland’s probate courts to your case. Whether you are facing straightforward contests or intricate trust disputes, we will work closely with you to address your inheritance concerns effectively.

What Is Inheritance Litigation?

Inheritance litigation is the legal process of settling conflicts over a deceased person’s estate. When family members and other interested parties disagree about the distribution of assets, this legal process provides a fair and lawful way to settle disputes. Cases that involve undue influence in creating the will and breaches of fiduciary duty by an executor often necessitate estate litigation. It typically involves the following steps:

1. Claim filing: The process begins when someone files a claim in court, stating that the will, trust or estate distribution is not valid or fair.
2. Discovery: Both parties exchange information and evidence related to the dispute. This may include financial records, witness statements and expert testimony.
3. Trial: If mediation or settlement negotiations do not lead to an agreement, the case goes to trial. Here, a judge or jury listens to arguments and looks at evidence from both sides.
4. Post-trial proceedings: After the trial, the court makes a decision, and either side can file an appeal.

Inheritance litigation can be time-consuming and emotionally challenging, but it is sometimes necessary to uphold the deceased’s true intentions. We are here to guide you through each step with care and understanding.

Why Hire A Cleveland Inheritance Disputes Attorney From Russo, Rosalina & Co., LPA?

When facing an inheritance dispute, you need a legal team that understands both the law and your personal situation. For over 25 years, we have been a trusted legal ally for Cleveland families going through these challenging times. Our experience has taught us that each case is unique, and we bring a blend of compassion and professionalism to every client we serve. We know how sensitive inheritance issues can be, so we handle each case carefully and diligently. Our goal is to guide you through this difficult process with the personal attention you deserve.

Your Solution Starts With A Consultation

Our attorneys can help resolve an inheritance dispute by negotiating amongst the involved parties or litigating the matter, if necessary. In cases of inheritance fraud, we will investigate the allegations and can defend or pursue them if they are valid.

We understand that losing a loved one is hard enough without the strain of an inheritance dispute creating additional stress. We aim to help you resolve these matters efficiently and swiftly while minimizing the impact these situations have on the family. Speak with a firm you can trust. Call our Parma office at 440-663-1535 or our Mayfield office at 440-847-8289. You can also use our online contact form to schedule a consultation.