1. Family Lawyer in Staten Island New York Case Background
Contested Will and Allegations of Undue Influence
The decedent executed a new Will late in life that substantially revised prior estate plans.
This later Will excluded distant relatives and instead directed the majority of the estate toward charitable purposes and selected individual beneficiaries.
After the decedent’s passing, multiple relatives alleged that individuals close to her exerted improper influence at a time when she was elderly and hospitalized.
Family Lawyer In Staten Island carefully assessed these claims under New York Surrogate’s Court standards governing capacity and undue influence.
2. Family Lawyer in Staten Island New York Probate Litigation
Involvement of State Authorities and Media Attention
Because the Will included substantial charitable bequests, the New York Attorney General’s office became involved to protect charitable interests.
Separate claims were also asserted against the estate’s executors, adding procedural and strategic complexity.
The matter drew significant national media coverage, increasing pressure on all parties.
Family Lawyer In Staten Island coordinated litigation strategy with careful attention to reputational and fiduciary concerns.
3. Family Lawyer in Staten Island New York Discovery and Strategy
Managing Extensive Evidence and Depositions
Document discovery spanned nearly the entirety of the decedent’s long life, including financial, medical, and correspondence records.
Dozens of depositions were conducted across multiple jurisdictions, involving witnesses with varying degrees of familiarity with the decedent.
Family Lawyer In Staten Island focused on evidence demonstrating consistent intent, mental clarity, and independence in decision-making.
This preparation strengthened the defense of the Will against claims of manipulation.
4. Family Lawyer in Staten Island New York Settlement and Outcome
Resolution Preserving Testamentary Intent
A comprehensive settlement was reached shortly after jury selection began.
Under the agreement, certain relatives received a defined monetary distribution while relinquishing further claims.
Other disputed bequests were adjusted, and charitable beneficiaries ultimately received the majority of the estate.
Family Lawyer In Staten Island helped achieve a resolution that the court described as fair and consistent with the decedent’s wishes.
At SJKP, our attorneys regularly serve as a Family Lawyer In Staten Island for clients involved in complex probate, estate, and inheritance disputes.
We assist executors, beneficiaries, and families with contested Wills, undue influence claims, and Surrogate’s Court litigation throughout New York.
If you are facing a high-stakes estate dispute, contact SJKP to consult with a Family Lawyer In Staten Island and protect your legal interests.
26 Jan, 2026
