British Columbia and Canadian law takes the right of individuals to make independent decisions regarding their estates seriously, with strong legal protections in place to preserve their right to determine their own monetary gifts and transfers, during their lifetimes or after death. However, some people may not make the best decisions for their estate or finances and may be easily influenced by an outside agent. Older people and those with limited mental capacity may be especially vulnerable to undue influence when they are writing their will or power of attorney. If you’re concerned that your recently deceased loved one was unduly influenced or lacked mental capacity, and this negative influence or their lack of mental capacity impacted their estates or your rightful beneficial interests, our Coquitlam, BC, undue influence lawyer can help. Founding attorney Hogan Song has twenty years of experience working as an esteemed negotiator and litigator. With decades of estate law knowledge, especially local statutes, you can trust in our personalized, results-oriented legal solutions. Contact HS Law Corporation, HS Law today.
Undue Influence Lawyer Coquitlam, BC
In the context of estate planning and writing a will or power of attorney, undue influence is when a property owner is under external pressure from a third party to make specific decisions about their estate planning or using their assets. Usually, this undue influence is for that third party’s financial gain or to specifically exclude a rightful heir, all at the detriment of the adult with the assets. While it’s common for family members to make specific requests of an estate owner or even attempt to sway the estate owner to make favorable decisions. However, asking for certain bequests is much different from deliberately exerting pressure on or manipulating someone into making changes to their estate plan or will, especially if the testatory or adult lacks mental capacity.
As the child, spouse, or close loved one of the testator or adult, you may feel rightfully frustrated, angry, and betrayed over your loved one’s or their attorney’s actions and wonder what your legal options are. Our Coquitlam undue influence lawyer takes these cases seriously. We believe that taking advantage of someone who is vulnerable or trusting is a heinous action, and we take swift action to address it.
Using an adult’s power of attorney or other authority or trust to gain control of their savings, investments, or estate or to manipulate their estate planning for financial gain may also be considered a crime that should be reported to the police. We pursue all possible legal avenues to protect your family and preserve your assets.
Proving undue influence or lack of mental capacity can be tricky. Our legal team thoroughly investigates the circumstances your loved one was in at the time of their estate planning or financial transaction and builds a strong case demonstrating that they were behaving in a manner inconsistent with their previous independent decision-making, especially if one person benefitted unreasonably. We may be able to negotiate a solution outside of court, but taking the matter before a judge may be the only way we can recoup any losses if financial damages were suffered..
Your Beneficial Interest Is On The Line. Our Experience Matters
The outcome of your undue influence or mental capacity matter rests on the ability of your legal representation. You’re in good hands with Coquitlam’s undue influence lawyers. We’re a local firm with deep roots in the community, and we take our clients’ needs seriously. Our experience and knowledge are reflected in every step we take for your case.
- Firm founder and lead attorney Hogan Song is an active board member of the Tri-Cities Seniors’ Action Society, New View Society, and Seniors Professional Services.
- We’re local, nearby, and understand the preferences of local judges as well as the most effective way to present a case
At HS Law Corporation, HS Law, we seek justice for people affected by undue influence or lack of mental capacity in their loved one’s estate planning. Contact us today to learn about your options. Our attorney offers free 30-minute consultations via phone or video call. Our team of qualified lawyers, paralegals, drafters, researchers, and other contract professionals prioritize outstanding communications, client service and superior relationship management (with impeccable ethics and integrity). Our prime objective is to get you the best results, while protecting your best interests. Don’t hesitate to secure the legal guidance you need to settle an estate dispute.
Types Of Undue Influence Cases We Handle
Exerting pressure on someone to alter their will, make financial decisions, or transfer property against their true wishes can have devastating consequences. That’s why working with a Coquitlam, BC undue influence lawyer is indispensable when disputes arise. At HS Law Corporation, we combine personalized service, results-focused legal strategy, and over a decade of experience to help you resolve complicated estate and litigation matters with confidence. We offer a free 30-minute consultation—reach out today to protect your rights and secure trusted legal guidance.
Will Contests Based On Undue Influence
One of the most common cases we handle involves challenging a will that may have been signed under pressure, manipulation, or coercion. An undue influence attorney can evaluate suspicious last-minute changes, estranged beneficiary involvement, or a lack of mental capacity in the testator. We work to make certain that a loved one’s true intentions—not someone else’s agenda—are honored in court.
Power Of Attorney Disputes
When someone misuses a Power of Attorney for personal gain, serious legal questions can arise. We help families investigate abuse of authority and bring legal action when financial or property decisions were made under improper influence. A Coquitlam undue influence lawyer can help safeguard the vulnerable and demand restitution when misuse is uncovered.
Estate Transfers And Gift Challenges
Older adults or those in declining health may be persuaded to transfer ownership of assets in ways that contradict their long-term wishes. We handle cases where suspicious property or monetary gifts have raised concern among rightful heirs. These types of disputes often involve subtle manipulation and require a thoughtful, firm legal strategy to untangle.
Business And Shareholder Pressure Claims
Undue influence doesn’t only happen in personal settings—it can also affect business decisions. If someone was pressured to sign away company shares, make a forced sale, or relinquish their role under questionable circumstances, we step in to evaluate the transaction’s fairness and legality. Our team of professionals business litigation background supports a comprehensive legal approach.
Elder Abuse And Coercion Cases
Family members, caregivers, or acquaintances may take advantage of elderly individuals emotionally, financially, or physically. Our firm has experience in identifying these situations and advocating for justice. These cases often require both sensitivity and strategic assertiveness to protect aging loved ones while preserving the family dynamic when possible.
Trust Disputes Involving Undue Pressure
When someone alters or sets up a trust under duress, it can affect beneficiaries for years. We review the circumstances of the trust’s creation, gather evidence, and represent clients in legal action aimed at invalidating the agreement or amending its terms. Our goal is to align the outcome with the true intentions of the trust’s originator.
Whether you’re facing financial exploitation, emotional coercion, or suspicious estate changes, HS Law Corporation offers reliable support and actionable legal solutions. Contact us to schedule your free 30-minute consultation with a Coquitlam undue influence lawyer who puts your rights and your peace of mind first.
