California trust litigation is dynamic, and understanding the timeline can help you prepare for what lies ahead. This process takes as long as it takes, and several factors can lengthen it. With a premier trust litigation attorney in Orange County, no matter how long this process takes, you can proceed with confidence knowing that you are fully equipped for success.
At Gokal Law Group, we have the premier team of trust litigation lawyers in Orange County and decades of collective experience helping people navigate probate court and achieve their desired outcomes. Learn how long this process will take in our blog:
How Long Does California Trust Litigation Usually Take?
California trust litigation takes at least 18 months, but it can also take up to five years (or longer with an appeal.) Here is a general timeline of what to expect after you file your objection:
- 60-120 days later: You have your hearing
- 60-90 days later: If there are no objections, the judge typically sets a hearing date and both parties begin preparing
- 1 year – 2 years: Both parties finish gathering evidence and deposing witnesses, and they proceed to trial.
- The judge will then schedule a trial date, which can go forward up to 5 years after the initial filing date of the Petition or lawsuit.
People often choose to negotiate and settle out of court via mediation. When parties choose to use alternative dispute resolutions (ADRs), they can settle at any point in this process, which can shorten it. On the other hand, the process can also take much longer.
Regardless of how you choose to resolve the dispute, working with the premier trust litigation lawyers in Orange County to navigate this process is essential.
What Can Elongate the California Trust Litigation Process
While we can give a general timeline, several aspects of the litigation process and court system can cause California trust litigation to take longer. Common causes of delays are:
- Too many cases for the court system
- Objections
- Gathering evidence (discovery)
- Serving third-party witnesses with subpoenas
- Case-specific issues
- Motions and other issues that require court orders
“Delays can be frustrating and add stress, but these rules ensure everyone has a fair chance to present their evidence and arguments in court. With a premier attorney, you will realize these delays are opportunities for you to strategize for success,” said Ronald V. Larson, a trust litigation attorney in Orange County at Gokal Law Group with nearly 30 years of complex litigation experience.
Trust Litigation Lawyers in Orange County
People sometimes expect California trust litigation to take a few months, but it can take years depending on the circumstances surrounding your case. Still, a lengthy process isn’t intimidating when you have a top law firm in your corner. At Gokal Law Group, we have been helping clients successfully navigate probate court for years. Your best interest is our top priority, and we measure our success in your success in court.
When litigation is on the table, you need a premier trust litigation attorney in Orange County willing to put their skin in the game and go to bat for you. Luckily, that’s what we do. Call us at (949) 753-9100 or contact us to request a case evaluation.