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Probate & Trust Law Section Conference Manual ... - Minnesota CLE

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E. See generally Estate of Torgersen, 711 N.W.2d 545 (Minn. App.<br />

2006).<br />

TIP SEVEN: ATTORNEY’S FEES ARE AVAILABLE FOR<br />

CHALLENGING THE WILL – BUT ONLY IF YOU WIN<br />

A. Minn. Stat. § 524.3-720 provides “any interested person who<br />

successfully opposes the allowance of a will, is entitled to receive<br />

from the estate necessary expenses and disbursements including<br />

reasonable attorneys’ fees incurred.”<br />

B. Be prepared for an uphill fight.<br />

C. Formal requirements:<br />

1. Elements<br />

a. In writing<br />

b. Signature of testator<br />

c. Witness signatures<br />

2. Presence of Self-Proving Clause creates a conclusive<br />

presumption of regularity of execution. Estate of Zeno,<br />

672 N.W.2d 574 (Minn. App. 2003).<br />

D. Competency of testator<br />

1. Note: Testamentary competency requirement is less than<br />

contracting competency standard.<br />

2. Tests: Awareness of assets and Natural Objects of Bounty.<br />

6

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