The probate court in El Paso, Texas is going to preside over a trial that is scheduled to commence on October 31 in an effort to resolve the Sherman Hemsley estate case.
News was circulating a while back about a man named Richard Thornton stepping forward claiming to be the late actor’s brother. He is challenging Hemsley’s will. In the will, Hemsley leaves everything to his “beloved partner” (this is the term used in the will) Flora Enchinton.
Things have been in limbo since Hemsley died back in July. In fact, his body is still being held in a funeral home in El Paso and no final services have been held.
Enchinton is extremely upset about the whole matter, and she has stated that she is certain that Hemsley would not want Richard Thornton controlling his estate. In fact, she says she knew Hemsley for some 20 years and never heard mention of a brother.
The judge has ordered Thornton to undergo DNA testing which will be utilized to determine if he is in fact related to Hemsley. Regardless of the outcome of the testing it would seem as though the last will that was signed by Hemsley should hold sway unless Thornton can convince the court that Hemsley was unduly influenced or not of sound mind.
When you hear about cases such as this one you see why it is important to consider all of the possible scenarios that could arise after your passing.
You can take steps to mitigate the possibility of any challenges standing in the way of your chosen heirs and their inheritances. If you would like to discuss your options with an expert simply take a moment to arrange for a consultation with a good Indianapolis estate planning lawyer.
Paul A. Kraft, Estate Planning Attorney
Mr. Kraft assists clients primarily in the areas of estate planning and administration, Medicaid planning, federal and state taxation, real estate and corporate law, bringing the added perspective of an accounting background to his work.
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