PRACTICING LAW IN TEXAS SINCE 1989

CONTESTED WILLS & INHERITANCE DISPUTES

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When Questions About a Will Need Legal Guidance

Losing a loved one is hard enough. When questions arise about the validity of their will, the emotional toll can grow even heavier. If you believe something isn’t right — or if you’ve been left out of a will unexpectedly — you may have the right to contest it.

At Bigham Law Firm, we support families across Fayette, Lavaca, Colorado, Lee, and surrounding Counties through difficult probate matters with skill and compassion. Whether you’re seeking clarity or defending a loved one’s wishes, we’re here to help you navigate the process.

Why Clients Trust Bigham Law Firm with Contested Wills and Inheritance Disputes

We’re not just probate attorneys — we’re advocates who care deeply about protecting what matters most to your family. Our team brings:

• Local knowledge of county probate courts and procedures
• Experience in probate litigation and will contests
• A personalized, responsive approach to each case

We understand the stress of probate disputes, and we’re committed to resolving them with professionalism, discretion, and a clear path forward.

WHAT MAKES A WILL LEGALLY VALID IN TEXAS?

To contest a will, you’ll need to show the court that it doesn’t meet Texas legal requirements. Here’s what the law says a valid will must include:

• Legal Capacity: The person must be 18+, legally married, or in military service.
• Sound Mind (Testamentary Capacity): They must understand what a will does and what property they’re passing on.
• Intent: They must clearly intend for the document to distribute their assets.
• Proper Execution: The will must be signed and witnessed correctly, unless it’s handwritten.

COMMON ReASONS WILLS ARE CONTESTED

Not every will is created under ideal circumstances. You may have grounds to challenge a will if:

• The person lacked mental capacity when the will was signed.
• The will was signed under undue influence or coercion.
• You or another rightful heir were unfairly excluded or removed.
• The will was forged or fraudulent.
• The will was revoked and no new one was made.
• The person was a victim of elder abuse or manipulation. 

If any of these apply, you may have a legal right to contest the will.

Who Can File a Will Contest?

In Texas, you must have legal standing — meaning you’re an heir, beneficiary, or someone who would have inherited under a previous version of the will or by law. You’ll also need to prove that the will is invalid and that continuing with it would cause you harm.