Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Missouri

Home contents, how to value?

Siblings were to split home contents 50/50 after bequests. Lock box not applied & inventory not taken. Sibling removed 95% of the contents. Its a mess, corporate trust wants to try and fix this. How do I determine the value of assets of a now empty home, with with no account of all its contents? I am honest, and this is killing me. Pictures will help, but won't address drawers, closets, cupboards, basement, etc. I really need help. Do I ask for 100% of as yet undetermined (?)value as sibling took everything, leaving only leftovers I have no desire for? Does a trust

typically have a bond for this type of theft? Tax ramifications for me for the half that I WAS to receive would be? Tax ramifications for receiving money to replace the stolen property would be what? Would that count as taxable income? What about compensation for my extreme anguish? I thought losing my parent couldn't get any worse. I was wrong. I am totally disabled, and need this to get resolved. The stress is physically destroying me. Any ideas you have for me will be very gratefully received.


Asked on 1/14/09, 9:06 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Nancy Fioritto Patete Nancy Fioritto Patete, Esq.

Re: Home contents, how to value?

If you are the trustee and the estate is still open, I suggest you consult with an attorney. The trust should be able to pay for this. You may be able to get a restraining order against any further movement, and the trust contents may also give instructions about going against the intent of the trustor.

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Answered on 1/15/09, 8:17 am


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