Protecting High Net-Worth Estates From Fraud and Misuse
If you are the executor, trustee or beneficiary of a high net-worth estate or trust, you know that mismanagement and fraud can drain away millions of dollars. Any suspicion of wrongdoing must be addressed immediately to prevent this loss. Illinois law allows beneficiaries and other interested parties to contest a will or trust for six months after the estate is opened by the court. You can also investigate and litigate misuse or fraud prior to probate if you suspect malfeasance.
At Esp, Kreuzer, Cores & McLaughlin, LLP, we understand the importance of protecting the interests associated with high-asset estates. People with significant wealth often have sophisticated financial holdings that include stocks and businesses. Attorney Kenneth McLaughlin has considerable estate planning and business law expertise. He can litigate any estate or trust dispute, no matter how complex.
Litigating Complex Estate and Trust Disputes
If you challenge a will or trust, the burden lies with you to prove that fraud, mismanagement or undue influence has occurred. As your lawyers, we will investigate any mismanagement or wrongdoing. If assets are being removed from the estate or trust, we can file an injunction to freeze any further transactions during litigation. We can also recover misappropriated assets and return them to the trust or estate. When necessary, we can assist you with the removal of trustees.
We can represent you in all types of estate or trust disputes, including those involving breach of fiduciary or trustee duty, improper asset allocation, mismanagement of assets, embezzlement or lack of testamentary capacity.
Undue influence on the decedent is another common reason for estate and trust litigation. Last-minute additions to wills, especially of non-family or caregivers, often raise suspicion among family members. We will determine whether the testator was manipulated or coerced into amending his or her will and pursue the matter in court, if necessary.
Please call us at 630-871-1002 to schedule an appointment with our Wheaton estate and trust litigation attorneys. You may also contact us online. We have offices in Chicago, Wheaton and Oswego.
