Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

Attorney claims I'm the heir, how to be certain?

Been contacted by an Attorney from the United Kingdom (via email). Stating that I'm the heir to an estate worth over $18 million and that he'll be representing me in the UK to get this money transferred. I'm quite suspicious about this and wonder if it could be some kind of scam. I doubt I'm even the heir, since my last name is a married name and I'm no longer even married. He said that he had all of the proof necessary to present me as the heir. He has not shared what that information is. To test him, I explained that I would not be providing him any of my banking information and that perhaps he should be speaking with my attorney on this matter (i have no attorney). He said he'd never ask for my banking information since the funds are being held by a securities firm. Once they validate the heir that ''they'' will arrange the transfer of the funds to me. He also had no problem speaking to my attorney and provided me his phone number. Would he do that if this was a scam? All he has asked of me right now is my contact information, address and he'll need a copy of my identification. I don't want to be a receiver of these funds and then be arrested for fraud. Wonder if you think this is too good to be true,or if cases like this happen?


Asked on 4/16/04, 11:39 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Chris Johnson Christopher B. Johnson, Attorney at Law

Re: Attorney claims I'm the heir, how to be certain?

It doesn't sound right to me, but if it's true I'd be expecting some kind of retainer agreement from him. You should also have an attorney here speak with the alleged attorney to find out more info and test the facts.

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Answered on 4/16/04, 2:47 pm
Jill Zimmerman Law Office of Jill Zimmerman

Re: Attorney claims I'm the heir, how to be certain?

Doesn't sound right at all. BE very careful.

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Answered on 4/19/04, 1:27 pm


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