Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

Mom gave home to sister but if she sells all 5 sibs get share

My mother gave her home to my sister, but if she ever sells it all 5 of us receive a share. How do we protect our interest. Can she take out a mortgage on it? Who pays the taxes? Is the will legal? Need some advise. She has applied to be the executor, hearing in court is July 15th.

Thanks for any help you can give.


Asked on 5/25/05, 7:12 pm

4 Answers from Attorneys

Scott Schomer Schomer Law Group

Re: Mom gave home to sister but if she sells all 5 sibs get share

You better get something in writing documenting the agreement or you will be in big trouble. You should also record something against the title, such as a memorandum of agreement, that will put the world on notice of your rights. If this isn't done, it may be impossible to enforce your rights.

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Answered on 5/26/05, 7:32 am
Ken Koenen Koenen & Tokunaga, P.C.

Re: Mom gave home to sister but if she sells all 5 sibs get share

I woiuld need to see a copy of the will. The sister may have been given a life estate (unless she sells). If that is what she receives, she could probably not refinance without a court order, and she would probably be required to pay the property taxes.

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Answered on 5/26/05, 7:50 am
Scott Linden Scott H. Linden, Esq.

Re: Mom gave home to sister but if she sells all 5 sibs get share

Attorney Koenen is correct. It sounds more like a life estate or maybe even a constructive trust.

Also, as he stated, the Trust instrument itself should be the source of the answer. I would be happy to take a look for you, free of charge, and give you my opinion. Feel free to contact me directly at 626-578-0708, extension 4.

I can also be reached through our firm's web site at www.No-Probate.com.

Scott

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Answered on 5/27/05, 11:50 am
Michael Olden Law Offices of Michael A. Olden

Re: Mom gave home to sister but if she sells all 5 sibs get share

you and your brothers and sisters need an attorney immediatly to help you as you cannot do it your self --- you question is too fragmented to answer properly and accuratly --- it appears your mother has died and i would need to see a copy of the will or other documents before any attorney can advise you properly --- by your area code i am in conta costa or near you === I have been practicing law in the San Francisco Bay area for approximately 35 years and expert in the area in the category in which your question is placed. I feel I can help you in this matter and if you wish to consult with me please contact me at 925-945- 6000.

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Answered on 5/25/05, 7:26 pm


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