Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Florida

No will, son inherits half business, liability?

My husband's father died with no will. He

has a lease-option on a bar, solely in his

name. Technically, he is now half owner,

w/the 3rd wife. 1. Can we compell her to

sell/reassign the contract? 2. And more

importantly, are we liable for any debts

the bar has or may incur, or for the

payments on the lease option? What

about if someone is injured on the

property? The widow has no assets

except the bar, my husband has assets

worth pursuing.


Asked on 7/03/07, 1:41 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: No will, son inherits half business, liability?

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such nformation, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

Nothing can be done at this time. The estate must be filed and a personal representative appointed by the court. The personal representative of an estate is responsible to administer the decedent's estate and to pay claims from the assets of the estate and not from his or her individual assets. You and your husband will have no personal liability unless you do something improper.

If the wife is appointed as personal representative and fails to properly

protect the assets with insurance, your husband can petition the court to compel her to purchase and maintain an appropriate policy. Your husband should consult with an attorney who can advise him of his legal rights and responsibilities.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

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Answered on 7/03/07, 8:37 pm

Re: No will, son inherits half business, liability?

I think you are a little ahead of yourself. If there has been no probate opened then the bar is technically owned by the estate of your father in-law. You and your husband would have no liability for the bar, except that you may lose a portion of the estate that in the end would come to you if the bar business is run poorly or in violation of the law. You need to open probate so that a personal representative (PR) can be appointed. The PR would have authority to deal with the bar and other assets and would be in a position to safeguard your interests. Bars are highly regulated, there is a potential for the estate could be liable for state taxes and or liens against the bar. I suggest you speak with an attorney and take some action very soon.

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Answered on 7/03/07, 2:16 pm


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