Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Arizona

Re: Probate law, I believe

Without a will, a child does not inherit anything from a step-parent. Unless, the step-parent has legally adopted the child.

To answer your question about who should have got the house, more facts are needed. Was step-mother married at the time of her death? Did she own the property in her name alone or jointly with others?

Regardless of who should have got the house, it may be too late to do anything about it now. But, again, I would need more facts.

You should contact an attorney to help you figure this out.

Re: Probate law, I believe

Without a will, the property goes to the heirs at law starting at the first priority and going to the next if no person exists in that priority step. The priorities are spouse, children, grandchildren etc. then parents, brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, their descendants, then to the state if none. Step children do not inherit if not adopted legally.

After 40 years it is a little late probably to do anything. Squatter's rights have probably given the squatter ownership. See an attorney with all facts and documents for a full opinion.

best regards,

James D. Jenkins