Legal Question in Family Law in California
separation and inheritance
My husband and I have been separated( no legal documentation) for 5 years. We live on the same parcel of land (one address) in two separate homes(one termed a granny cottage). I have recently come into an inheritance from a family trust and would like to know if i can protect it as mine. We will file for divorce next year once our children graduate.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: separation and inheritance
Probably. You should keep it in a separate account and keep an accounting of everything you spend the money on.
Re: separation and inheritance
An inheritance is your separate asset. The best way to preserve it's character as your separate property is to hold it in a separate bank account. Do not commingle it in an account with any other asset. I realize you are separated and that your income will likely remain your separate property, but in an abundance of caution, hold your inheritance in a completely separate account.