4 Tips to Avoid a Will or Trust Contest

No one wants their legacy to be remembered for the arguments it caused. Unfortunately, disagreements over a will or trust can quickly spiral into costly legal battles, strained relationships, and broken families. The good news? With some thoughtful planning, you can spare your loved ones that heartache—and make sure your wishes are honored.

If you're worried someone might contest your estate plan, here are four important ways to protect what matters most:

1. Skip the DIY approach—get professional help.

It might be tempting to write your own will or download a free template online, but when it comes to something as important as your estate plan, shortcuts can backfire. If you’re concerned about disputes down the line, the last thing you want is a plan that isn’t legally sound or easy to challenge. An experienced estate planning attorney will not only help you clearly spell out your wishes but also ensure all the legal boxes are checked to reduce the chances of a contest.

2. Talk to your family—secrecy invites suspicion.

You don’t have to share every detail of your estate plan, but letting your loved ones know that you’ve made one—and where to find it—can go a long way toward preventing conflict. If you’re comfortable, consider hosting a family meeting with your estate planning attorney. This gives your family a chance to understand your wishes, ask questions, and hopefully avoid misunderstandings later on. A little transparency now can save a lot of heartache down the road.

3. Get creative with trusts for challenging situations.

Worried about leaving money to someone who might misuse it—or whose circumstances make a lump-sum inheritance risky? You don’t have to cut them out entirely. Instead, you can leave their share in a discretionary trust, managed by a neutral third party like a bank or trust company. This allows you to protect the beneficiary and your values while still providing support. You can also set conditions for how and when the money is distributed—whether it’s tied to milestones, age, or specific needs. It's your plan—make it work for your family.

4. Keep your plan fresh.

Life doesn’t stand still, and neither should your estate plan. Marriage, divorce, new grandchildren, business changes—when your life shifts, your plan should reflect it. Updating your estate plan regularly shows intent and thoughtfulness, which can discourage legal challenges and make sure your current wishes are clear.

Estate planning isn't just about who gets what—it's about making things easier for the people you love. If you’re worried about potential disputes or just want peace of mind, let’s talk. A solid plan today can save your family a world of stress tomorrow. And as I always say: Where there's a will, it's your way!