Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New York
Husband's rights to deceased wife's assets and property
I am Inquiring about a husbands right to his wife's assets, mainly home furnishings from her previous marriage. The present husband lived with his wife for 30 years.before she passed away.
Should her lawyer divulge the amount of her estate including her will. There are no children involved
I am asking as the husband's POA.
Thank you
4 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Husband's rights to deceased wife's assets and property
Husband # 1 has no claim on the estate except what may have been left to him by will.
Husband #2 (Current Husband) is entitled to a minimum of $50,000 plus one-third of the estate.
I suggest you consult an attorney.
Re: Husband's rights to deceased wife's assets and property
Unless a Waiver of a Right of Election was signed, the surviving husband has a right to the personal property in the home and to a portion of the deceased spouse's estate
Re: Husband's rights to deceased wife's assets and property
A husband is entitled to share in his wife's estate. Pursuant to law, that share must be at least 1/3 of her assets. How the assets are divided may be up to the discretion of the executor if the wife had a will.
A husband must be notified if an application is made to Surrogate's Court concerning the distribution of assets.
I would recommend that you consult with an attorney.
Re: Husband's rights to deceased wife's assets and property
The previous husband has no rights or interest except as provided in the will. If he is in the will, then he has a right to view the will and other rights.
Good luck.