Estate Litigation: One Law Firm Helps Families Find Closure in Difficult Times––Buntrock Law

Estate Litigation: One Law Firm Helps Families Find Closure in Difficult Times

Courtesy Buntrock Law, Scottsdale LIVING WELL Magazine

Shane Buntrock knows the law. In fact, he has been a practicing attorney in Arizona for over 14 years. Recently, Buntrock opened his own law practice in Mesa to serve businesses and individuals with a wide range of legal services. Buntrock has developed a reputation as a respected litigator who confidently states that his firm is “people-driven” and believes his practice provides a refreshing alternative to the abundance of more process-driven firms.

“I realized this was the right time to roll out and make something special happen under my own management and legal service vision,” says Buntrock. “I am fortunate to have the loyalty and support of many clients, colleagues, family and friends in this venture.” Buntrock is recognized as AV Preeminent® by Lexis-Nexis Martindale Hubbell, the definitive guide to the most distinguished lawyers in America.

According to Buntrock, the newly established firm will focus on several key areas. One area of focus is on trust and estate litigation. Often, it may be necessary to go to court to challenge the validity of a will or trust, to make sure that the terms of a will or trust are properly administered or to recover money or property improperly taken by someone not authorized to do so.

“We represent trustees of trusts, personal representatives of a will or beneficiaries of the trust or will,” Buntrock states. “Many times people that contact us are simply unaware of their rights to estate information, their obligations and what recourse they may have against the estate, trust or a family member who may be causing problems or may have taken advantage of a vulnerable parent or grandparent. Arizona has some tough laws that are designed to protect vulnerable adults and prevent others from taking advantage of them.”

The validity of a will may be challenged if it does not meet minimum legal requirements. A properly executed will requires that the deceased and two legitimate witnesses sign the documents and attest to the will’s authenticity. Any person offering the will for probate must provide clear and convincing proof that the will is valid and might need to produce the witnesses that originally attested that the will was and is a legitimate document.

Even if a will or a trust was properly executed, the validity of the will or trust can still be challenged based on the state of mind of the person making the will or trust. Under Arizona law, a will signed by a person under duress or undue influence, due to mistake or fraud, or while the signer lacked the mental capacity to understand his or her actions can be deemed to be invalid.

“Trust and estate litigation will often involve heightened emotions as financial matters and interests cross swords with family dynamics,” says Buntrock. “Our job is to bring objectivity as we review each matter and gather as many facts from our client as possible to determine the best course of action and options for pursuing matters with the intention of a cost-effective resolution and closure.”

Over years of providing trust and estate litigation services, Buntrock recognizes that trust and estate litigation can become an expensive endeavor. His firm works with clients on a case-by-case basis. In some circumstances where liquidity is present, facts are understood and a strong claim exists, the firm will structure a working relationship with the client to reduce or defer fees and receive compensation at the end of litigation process.

Buntrock’s trust and estate experience goes beyond client work. He’s personally dealt with probate issues within his family. “I really do enjoy helping people and families gain closure on these sensitive trust and estate matters,” Buntrock concludes. “I try to find the best position of strength in each matter in order to push proactively for resolution. It’s not always easy; however it is rewarding as I can see how our work really does help to bring closure to the families.”

Buntrock Law is located at 2158 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 119, in Mesa. You may reach them at 480-664-7728 or BuntrockLaw.com.