Self-Represented: A Step-by-Step Guide to Contesting a Trust or Will Without a Lawyer

[CALIFORNIA EDITION]

You have the right to represent yourself.
But the legal system wasn't built for you.

If you're trying to contest a trust or will-on your own or even with an attorney-you've probably already discovered how confusing, fragmented, and overwhelming probate can be. The courts don't provide a step-by-step manual. Legal information exists, but it's scattered across court websites and buried in language meant for lawyers, not for you.

Written by someone who successfully navigated California probate without a lawyer, Self-Represented is the guide the courts don't offer. It doesn't just tell you what to file-it shows you how, why, and what to watch out for.

• Determine if you have standing and the legal grounds to contest.
• Navigate critical deadlines, including the strict 120-day rule for trust contests.
• Understand how undue influence, lack of capacity, fraud, and elder abuse form the backbone of your case.
• Gather and organize the evidence that matters in court.
• Prepare and file your petition with confidence, knowing why each step matters and what pitfalls to avoid.

Also includes free downloads to jumpstart your case:

• Petition workbook with AI prompts to help you outline, organize, and draft your claims.
• Petition template on California pleading paper, formatted and ready to customize.
• Evidence checklist so you know exactly what to gather to strengthen your case.
• Step-by-step filing guide with required forms to keep you on track and avoid costly mistakes.

Whether you're representing yourself or working alongside an attorney, this book will help you ask better questions, spot red flags, and stay in control of your case-for less than the cost of a 15-minute phone call with a probate lawyer.

Remaining silent will never bring justice.
For those who can't afford silence, this guide gives you back your voice-and the tools to use it.