Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Illinois
I watched my mother steal all of my father's monies & house when his brain wasn't working, he never had anything in her name, the marriage was over from pretty much day one, he was abused in his own home, and he couldn't leave her because he told me that she would take all of his money; unfortunately she had already stolen all of it - he just didn't know it.
I am the beneficiary from day one - until she stole everything (most I witnessed); what kind of attorney should I see?
She abuses me psychologically, some physical - more physical when I was a child, and verbally; she has mental illnesses. I am 49 yrs old and have always lived in my father's house; which was "A" ok with him forever. He is deceased. I can't let her get away with this thiefing since the monies/house was never hers. I attend College of DuPage (break presently until Jan. 10th), get really good grades (my mother had stolen my Canadian school money long ago), so now I go to school which she says she pays for. I have been a housecleaner for over 29 years, now I am part-time. The past several years she has been putting me through H____, a diversion from me obtaining a lawyer probably, she has been telling me I should see a counselor that I'm imagining the trust between my father and his twin brother, I'm crazy, and should seek help, I've ruined Christmas again....etc...I need to put an end to this situation all around permanently, since we are in the same house. This woman is very controlling, and I have seen her doing terrible things to my father who got the worst of her - obviously.
I must mention that I do not have much money in the bank, which she reminds me that I'm a "charity case." Abuse continues. Diane
2 Answers from Attorneys
An attorney experienced in probate law can advise you regarding your present legal options. As you have described the situation, you could have sought such advise for several years. These kinds of cases are complex, and require details, documents, supporting witnesses, and patience. Sadly. such family disputes involving distribution of benefits,
abuse of relationships, and taking advantage of a person with declining mental health is not unusual.
A probate lawyer can help you determine what portion of your father's estate you may be entitled to receive. As for your other concerns, a good counselor can help you better explore your options for effectively dealing with your difficult family problems. Someone from outside the situation can identify options you may be too stressed out to explore without some guidance. Counsellors at COD may be able to help you find a counsellor who can work with you one on one, I strongly recommend you reach out and find a qualified professional counsellor to talk to--it can make a big difference in managing your future.
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