Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New York

Deduction of legal fees

I am an heir in my grandmother's estate. I received a receipt and release agreement to sign and return to the attorneys office, stating the agreement will be kept in escrow until I receive my distribution check. The letter states my distrubution will be my inheritance less 1,000 of legal fees I cost the estate. Is this legal, should I sign the letter and return it?


Asked on 6/21/04, 9:38 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Walter LeVine Walter D. LeVine, Esq.

Re: Deduction of legal fees

Have you seen a copy of the Will? If not, you should request a copy. This is important for 2 raesons: to verify what part or amount of the estate you are entitled to receive, or the specific dollar amount, as well as why you are being charged for the attorney's fees. I would not sign anything until you are satisfied that what you are entitled to and what you are to be charged, follows the Will. You may also be entitled yo an accounting of the estate. I cannot properly answer your question. Why is there a claim that you cost the estate attorney's fees? Did you contest anything? More information is needed.

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Answered on 6/22/04, 12:31 am


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