Disputing a Will or Estate? Here’s What You Need to Know

June 19, 2025

Disputing a Will or Estate? Here’s What You Need to Know

The loss of a loved one is never easy. But when a disagreement over a will, trust, or estate surfaces, it can add legal stress to emotional pain. At Sheehan & Ramsey, we help Mississippi families navigate estate disputes with care, clarity, and the determination to pursue outcomes that reflect their loved one’s true intentions.


Whether you’re concerned about an unfair will, hidden assets, or undue influence, estate litigation offers a legal pathway to uncover the facts and protect what’s rightfully yours.


What Is Estate Litigation?

Estate litigation refers to legal disputes related to the administration of a deceased person’s estate. Common cases involve contested wills, claims of improper influence, or questions about a person’s mental capacity at the time they created or updated their estate plan.


Litigation can also arise if an executor or trustee isn’t fulfilling their legal responsibilities, or if there’s a disagreement about how assets should be divided.


Common Reasons Families Challenge a Will or Estate

Not all disputes stem from greed—many are rooted in legitimate concerns about fairness or legal validity. You may have grounds to challenge a will or trust if:


  • Your loved one lacked mental capacity when they signed the documents
  • A caregiver, family member, or outsider exerted pressure or manipulation
  • The will was signed improperly or doesn’t meet legal requirements
  • The estate is being mismanaged by a trustee or executor
  • There are conflicting or missing estate planning documents


At Sheehan & Ramsey, we review all available evidence and documentation to help you determine whether legal action is appropriate—and what your best next steps might be.


How We Help Families in Mississippi Estate Disputes

Our team works closely with clients throughout Ocean Springs and the Gulf Coast region to understand their story, evaluate claims, and build strong legal strategies.


We’ve handled estate litigation involving:


  • Disputed wills and forged signatures
  • Undue influence by relatives or caregivers
  • Guardianship challenges involving incapacitated adults
  • Conflicts between co-heirs and beneficiaries
  • Trust administration breakdowns


Whether you're defending the terms of a will or questioning its validity, we guide you through the process from start to finish—with a focus on resolution, fairness, and protecting what your loved one intended.


What to Bring to Your Estate Litigation Consultation

If you believe something is wrong with your loved one’s will or estate administration, gathering documentation early is key. When you meet with an attorney, bring:


  • A copy of the will or trust
  • Any medical records showing mental capacity concerns
  • Texts, emails, or notes that suggest pressure or coercion
  • Names of beneficiaries or other parties involved
  • Any evidence of mismanagement or mishandling of assets


Don’t worry if you don’t have everything—our team will guide you on what’s helpful and what to look for next.


Start the Conversation—Before Things Get Worse

Estate litigation can be complex, but it’s often necessary to protect your family’s future or honor a loved one’s final wishes. At Sheehan & Ramsey, we take these matters seriously and treat every case with the care it deserves.

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