Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Virginia
My grandfather had lifetime rights deeded to 3 of his sons, and my mother (step-child). Two of the sons were located and signed over their interest in land, one has not been heard from in over 50 years. All three of these sons were adopted out to different families in the 40's, and I'm not at all sure at that time that there was a legal process followed. At one time there was talk that the missing son had committed suicide in another state. He would have been born between 1920's-1930's at home, there is no birth certificate, no social security number issued, no record of employment, no known address, no death certificate - nothing other than his name was on the deed. Mom did a Partition Sale, however 1/4 of the sale is being held. Can my mother claim the money that is being held by the Clerk pursuant to Statute as next of kin?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Your mother should consult with the attorney who must
have represented her in the partition suit in the local circuit
court for advice on this matter.
However, if such is not possible (for whatever reason), then she
should arrange for a consultation with a local attorney who
handles real property law matters, including partition suits in the
locality where the matter was previously litigated.