Trusts are a major source of security for both the people who create them and the beneficiaries who rely on them later. Unfortunately, not every trustee ends up being reliable. At some point, you may have to ask the court to remove a trustee that isn't doing his or...
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Will Contests And Probate Disputes
Named someone’s executor? Here’s what to do now
If you've been named the executor of someone's will, the responsibility you've suddenly been handed may feel overwhelming at first. You can use these guidelines, however, to better understand what's expected and how you need to proceed. Here's how to start: 1. Take...
Are handwritten wills legal in Colorado?
A handwritten will, known as a "holographic" will, is generally legal in Colorado -- as long as the document meets certain requirements. If you're curious about whether or not a handwritten will can hold up in court, here's what you need to know: 1. The "will" doesn't...
Before you decide to contest a will, know what to expect
You may be heartbroken and infuriated by turns after learning the contents of a loved one's will -- but should you sue? While some of your friends and relatives may be urging you to take action, it's important to take a moment so that you fully understand how...
Heirs accuse singer-songwriter’s widow of deceit
Did the widow of singer-songwriter Sir Mack Rice, the legendary composer of Mustang Sally and other iconic hits, defraud her husband while he was alive? That's essentially the allegation by one of the songwriter's sons from another relationship. The son has filed a...
Celebrities often bypass their heirs in wills
Do you have an obligation to pass your wealth on to your children? You may feel a certain moral obligation to do so, but there's no legal obligation forcing you to leave your children anything, no matter what your wealth. In fact, a look into the wills of many...
Estate battle involves multiple courts, allegations of murder
Most estate battles don't attract a great deal of attention, but there are exceptions. A dispute involving the spendthrift trust fund of a millionaire's grandson has spawned lawsuits in three states. Its dramatic background and complexity have drawn national interest....
Aretha Franklin leaves her estate without a will
Singing legend Aretha Franklin, like many others before her, died without a will. Unlike many others, however, she has a massive legacy that could become the source of a great deal of controversy for her heirs. The famous Queen of Soul died earlier this month after a...
How to prevent your choice of guardian from being overturned
What do you expect could throw your will into dispute? Your insurance money? Your other assets? The way that you chose to distribute the household goods? How about who you pick as guardian for your children? You may believe that you have chosen the perfect guardian...
Use these tips to pick the right executor for your estate
Whom do you trust to carry out your wishes once you're no longer here? That's no easy question -- but it's the first thing you need to ask yourself when you're trying to decide who to name the executor of your estate. Your executor has a big responsibility and it...