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The process of contesting a will can be a complex and emotional experience, particularly if you reside in Washington DC. Whether you feel that a loved one's final wishes have been unfairly altered or you believe that the will is invalid, understanding the legal process of contesting a will is critical to protecting your rights. In this blog post, we'll explore the step-by-step process of contesting a will in Washington DC, including the assets at issue, standing, the time period to contest a will, the methods of contesting, discovery of evidence, mediation, trial, appeal, and how an experienced attorney can help. The assets at issue: When contesting a will, it's vital to understand what assets are at issue. Typically, assets at issue in a will contest include real property, bank accounts, investments, and other assets that have been left to beneficiaries. Understanding the specific assets at issue in your case can help guide your legal strategy. Standing: Before contesting a will, it's essential to establish standing. Standing is determined by whether you are an interested party who has been affected by the will. Beneficiaries named in the will have legal standing, as do individuals who would inherit under DC's intestacy laws if the will is deemed invalid. The time period to contest a will: In Washington DC, the time period to contest a will is limited to six months from the date the will is admitted to probate.