Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Arizona
Getting Inheritance
My wife's mother died several years ago and my wife has been contacted by a relative saying that she might receive her mom's share of an inheritance. She has been told to fax her birth certificate to a bank. However, the person from whom she might get the inheritance from is not dead yet.
1. Is it normal to collect info before the person dies?
2. Is it normal for the bank to be involved like this?
3. Is it normal to send info without even knowing for sure that you are included in the will?
4. Is there anything we can do to make sure everything is handled properly?
The bank is in Hawaii where the person who has the will used to live. However, the person with the will now lives in AZ.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Getting Inheritance
Some facts are missing. Who is this relative? Why doesn't she just devise the inheritance to your wife instead of her mother's estate? I am guessing that maybe a trust is involved, but from the way you asked the question, this the circumstances are not normal under the terms of a simple will.
Re: Getting Inheritance
Perhaps the person who lives in Arizona might want to consult with an estate attorney in Arizona to make sure his or her wishes are met. I would not fax a birth certificate to a bank without knowing more information. Nowadays we must be careful to guard our identity. Perhaps an Arizona attorney could be of assistance. We are available if needed.
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