Losing a loved one is never easy. But when questions start swirling about what they truly wanted to happen with their estate, things can get even harder — especially if there’s no clear will, or if what’s written down feels… off.
For families in Colorado, disputes over wills and inheritance are more common than many realize. These legal battles — known as probate litigation — can spark tension among relatives, cause long-standing rifts, and even end up in court. But at the heart of it all, these disputes are often about something more than money: they’re about clarity, fairness, and honoring the final wishes of someone who can no longer speak for themselves— and that’s where experienced contested wills and probate lawyers can make all the difference.
Why Inheritance Disputes Break Out
It’s one thing to write a will — it’s another for everyone to agree on what it means or whether it’s even valid. Sometimes, family members are surprised to find a sudden change in the will. Other times, they uncover multiple versions tucked away in drawers, or they suspect someone may have influenced the deceased during a vulnerable moment.
Here’s a look at the common triggers behind Colorado probate disputes:
- Handwritten Wills (Also Called “Holographic” Wills) These can be tricky. If someone scribbled their final wishes on a napkin or a loose sheet of paper, is it legally binding? Only if it meets strict criteria — and even then, expect a thorough review to prove authenticity.
- Multiple Wills Floating Around It’s not unusual for someone to update their will over time. The problem is, older versions don’t always get destroyed, and newer ones may be disputed. Which one takes legal precedence? That’s something the courts (and the lawyers) have to sort out.
- Accusations of Undue Influence Was the will changed after someone applied pressure — maybe a relative, a caregiver, or a new spouse? If a will reflects more of someone else’s agenda than the deceased’s, it can be challenged.
- Capacity Concerns Mental clarity matters. If the person who signed the will was dealing with dementia or another cognitive issue, someone might claim they weren’t in the right frame of mind to make those decisions.
- Intent vs. Interpretation Not every document is meant to serve as a will — and not every will is easy to interpret. Families can argue over what certain phrases mean, who gets what, or whether a document was even meant to serve as a legal will in the first place.
What Happens When You’re Left Out (or Treated Unfairly)
Maybe you were expecting to be included in a will and suddenly find yourself left out. Or perhaps the terms don’t reflect what your loved one told you privately. These are moments when grief turns into disbelief — and sometimes into a legal challenge.
That’s where working with a skilled probate litigation attorney in Colorado becomes critical. They can help you understand your legal standing, explore your options, and take steps to make sure your loved one’s wishes are upheld — even if that means going to court.
How a Probate Litigation Lawyer Can Help You
Legal help isn’t just about filing paperwork or quoting statutes. When families are fighting over estates, emotions run high, and so does the complexity of the case. A good attorney steps in as both your advocate and your steady hand.
They can assist with:
- Reviewing wills and trusts to clarify your position
- Investigating whether documents were signed legally or under pressure
- Collecting evidence (medical records, witness statements, handwriting samples)
- Representing you in negotiations or courtroom proceedings
- Speaking directly with other beneficiaries and personal representatives on your behalf
- Ensuring that the estate is handled fairly, without manipulation or confusion
Trusted Guidance from Peakstone Law Group, LLC
Based in Colorado Springs, Peakstone Law Group, LLC helps clients across El Paso County, Pueblo County, Teller County, and nearby areas navigate the messy realities of estate disputes. Whether you’re disputing a will, defending one, or trying to figure out what your loved one really intended, their team brings years of experience to the table — along with a steady commitment to protecting your interests.
Wills and estates aren’t just about who gets what. They’re about trust, truth, and honoring someone’s final voice. If something doesn’t sit right, it’s worth talking to a legal professional. Because in probate court, a well-prepared case can be the key to restoring not just what’s fair but what’s right.