Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Minnesota

No will but last wishes written on paper

My sister committed suicide 6 months ago. On her was found a note that simply said ''I leave all my possessions to Kerri and all my money to Nick, I wish to be cremated''

Having a very diverse family many things were taking at liberty that caused strife amongst the family. My parents said since she was their daughter that they get to decide how to cremate bury her etc. They are also saying that the money should be dispearsed to cover funeral costs and other items and should not go to Nick. We have memorials that were collected and everyone agrees they can go towards funeral costs but half of us feel that the my sisters personal bank account and money should go to Nick as she requested.

My parents said the law says that all money goes to pay for funeral costs first and then the rest can be decided upon. However we believe the memorials should go to the funeral costs and the bank money to nick as our sister requested. Who is right, what is legally correct and binding, and what can we do to prevent my parents from taking the money our sister left for Nick?


Asked on 4/03/07, 1:14 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Andrew Miller Law Office of Andrew S. Miller, LLC

Re: No will but last wishes written on paper

This sounds like a complicated situation that could turn into a contested estate in probate court. I focus on probate and estate planning and would be happy to discuss this matter with you further. Feel free to contact me via email or telephone.

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Answered on 4/03/07, 11:22 am


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