Spend any amount of time with attorney Pamela J. Helton and
you will quickly see the value she places on family. She believes in building
strong, healthy relationships and doing the necessary work to keep those
relationships strong and healthy. This is why she, and the other attorneys at The Law Office of Pamela J. Helton, always
recommend adults have their wills prepared.
Unfortunately, it is common to see a person pass intestate,
meaning they pass without a will. There are plenty of legal problems which we
can discuss, but we would be remiss if we skipped over the emotional problems one’s
family might experience should you die without a will.
We see it often in our practice, but you may see it too. It comes
up frequently in the news when a celebrity dies without a will. We are big music
lovers and were quite saddened by the recent loss of the great Aretha Franklin.
We mourn her passing by enjoying the amazing gifts she has left behind. We hope
her family is able to move forward and do the same. However, it has been
reported that Ms. Franklin has passed intestate. Fortunately, her family has made
some quick moves in the direction of peace. There is a very long road ahead,
though, with so many decisions to be made. Will they be able to keep the peace?
Or will this turn into a public family feud?
Being specific and updating your will on a regular basis is
important. Not doing so can cause emotional distress as we can see in the case
of the estate of actor Robin Williams. He did have a will when he passed, but
the wording is somewhat subjective and has his heirs fighting over items of
sentimental value. Mr. Williams family went to court over a tuxedo, amongst
other things. His three children were left his clothing, jewelry, and personal
items he amassed before his third marriage. His wife was left his home and its
contents. In the home, hung the tuxedo he wore at the wedding to his third
wife. Due to the sentimental value, she very much wanted to keep possession of
the tuxedo. However, the tuxedo was part of the clothing amassed prior to the marriage
and therefore was technically granted to the children. The matter was left for
a judge to resolve.
Death is difficult and no matter how we prepare it will
cause emotional distress to our loved ones. But, if we prepare, we can
drastically reduce the pain and unnecessary suffering. Please call us to
schedule a time to discuss your will. Let’s ensure it is properly prepared and
up to date.
