A Verdict Is Found in the Case of Aretha Franklin’s Two Wills
Aretha Franklin owned four homes at the date of her passing in 2018. The emergence of two handwritten wills several months after her death sparked a dispute between her sons. They disagreed on what their mother’s true intentions were concerning her real estate and other assets. Kecalf Franklin and Edward Franklin sought to establish the document dated March 31, 2014, found under sofa cushions, as their mother’s official legal will. However, Ted White II argued that the court should recognize a document from 2010 as valid. A verdict regarding the case of Aretha Franklin’s two wills has been found.
The Verdict
Kurt Olson, representing White as his attorney, argued that the evidence substantiated the claim that Franklin had intended the 2010 document to function as her will. This claim was based on its discovery in a cabinet where Aretha stored her essential documents. Whereas, another son testified that the singer routinely sorted through paperwork while sitting on the couch. Therefore, it made sense that she would have written something important and left it there. The jury presiding over Franklin’s estate faced the task of determining the validity of either or both wills and the impact of the latter one on the earlier version. Ultimately, the jury ruled in favor of the 2014 document, acknowledging it as a valid will eligible for probate. In summary, this document will now dictate the distribution of her estate and leave her home with the most significant net worth to Kecalf Franklin.
Ongoing Disagreement of Music Assets
There remains an ongoing disagreement regarding the management of Aretha Franklin’s music assets. Although, indications in the will suggest that her sons would jointly receive any generated income. A status conference has been scheduled with the judge for January to address this matter.
Importance of Estate Planning
Estate planning documents are intricate legal instruments that dictate how assets, healthcare, and dependents are managed in case of incapacity or death. For this reason, when people do not use attorneys for estate planning, things can go wrong. The case of Aretha Franklin’s two wills is an unfortunate example. Consulting with an attorney specializing in estate planning helps create a comprehensive and legally sound plan tailored to your unique circumstances. Without a doubt, they ensure your wishes are executed as intended. Contact us today to get started on your estate plan.