Once again, the battle over the handling of Prince’s estate has made the news. In New Jersey or elsewhere, when a loved one dies without a will, there are bound to be issues when it comes to administering the estate. Estate litigation is sometimes the only way to resolve conflicts that arise. Litigation certainly seems to be the theme in the Prince estate matter.
According to a recent report, the executor of Prince’s estate moved several recordings from the musician’s home vault to a secure storage facility in another state. Two of the individuals named as heirs to the late singer’s estate disagreed with the move and have vowed to take legal action if the recordings are not returned. The executor, however, claims to have full power over such decisions and is refusing to budge.
The executor in this case, Comerica Bank & Trust, was appointed by a judge since the singer failed to leave behind a will or any other estate planning documents. The singer’s six siblings were ultimately named heirs to his estate, and Comerica designated to handle the estate to the benefit of the heirs. Moving the tapes, according to two of the musician’s sisters, was unnecessary and done without their consent. A spokesperson for Comerica claims that no actions were taken without first informing the beneficiaries.
Not every estate has assets like those involved in the Prince case. Even so, when an executor makes decisions that beneficiaries do not agree with, it is okay for the heirs to speak up and pursue legal complaints if they feel it is necessary. New Jersey residents who disagree with how the estates of their loved ones are being handled can turn to an experienced estate litigation attorney for assistance in resolving the matter as swiftly as possible.
Source: mprnews.org, “Prince tapes moved to California; 2 heirs angry,” Oct. 12, 2017