Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Florida

Joint Accounts

My wife and I were joint tenants on a Certificate of Deposit, without my knowledge she cashed in the CD prematurely and re-opened another CD in her name only and made it Payable on Her Death to her sister. At the time she was suffering from small cell lung cancer and knew she would be dying within the next 4 to 6 months. She did pass away in May 2008, and my sister in law cashed in the CD in June of 2008. Is there anything I can legally do about this, i.e. claim that half of that money in the CD belonged to me.


Asked on 9/24/08, 7:20 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Alan Wagner Wagner, McLaughlin & Whittemore P.A.

Re: Joint Accounts

Sounds like she stuck it to you on her way out the door. Nothing you can do about it at this point. Check with the bank, but as you describe it, the CD could validly be cashed by her for her to do what she wished with the money. It is like having a joint checking account.

Read more
Answered on 9/24/08, 9:55 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Probate, Trusts, Wills & Estates questions and answers in Florida