Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California
what to do if estranged from deceased mother
my husbands mother died, by her choice he has had limited contact with her, she has 2 other natural sons (my husband was adobted). we have no idea if she has a will or a trust or anything. we do know that she has a house and some money. what are my husbands rights and what can we do. the brothers will not talk.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: what to do if estranged from deceased mother
Have an attorney do a search to see if a probate proceeding has been commenced. If not, commence suit yourself. Of course, all this can be proceeded by negotiation to resolve the issue out of court.
Re: what to do if estranged from deceased mother
If the house passes by will or trust (not joint tenancy), then you should receive notice soon from the executor or trustee about the estate administration.
You may wish to have an attorney research the title to the house and also research to see whether probate has been filed. If his brothers remain uncooperative, an attorney may get better cooperation from them.