Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Who has the leagl right to keep a hidden treasure.

I am using ficticious names so this might be easier to understand.

Liz,is renting a new home from Joe, and has knowledge that the prior owner Henry who has been deceased for 2 years had possibly buried money on the property. What if Liz does find money buried or some kind of assests hidden under ground? Before Henerys sudden death the house was willed to his evil daughter (Tina) by means of trickery and then sold the house to Joe 3 months ago. Tina never was told about the hidden treasure. Joe is aware of the facts but he still thinks it is an old wise tale. Liz knows all the complete details and believes it. She digs with Joe's approval..........and maybe finds something?


Asked on 9/03/02, 12:08 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Bryan Whipple Bryan R. R. Whipple, Attorney at Law

Re: Who has the leagl right to keep a hidden treasure.

In my opinion, the money is part of Henry's estate and must be dealt with according to provisions of the Probate Code. If Tina is the heir apparent, any other claimants to either the house or the money must establish by appropriate and successful challenge to the will that it should be set aside.

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Answered on 9/05/02, 4:43 pm
Mitchell Roth MW Roth, Professional Law Corporation

Re: Who has the leagl right to keep a hidden treasure.

This sounds like a law student seeking someone else to do his thinking for him. If this question is for real, contact me when she finds the treasure.

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Answered on 9/03/02, 1:36 pm


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