Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New York

my grandparents put their house in my mother and uncle name for meicade purposes, since then my mother passed away and they want me to sign off on the deed

what happens if I do not sign and they pass away


Asked on 6/27/10, 1:31 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Yana Feldman Melnik Law Group

I am assuming that your grandparents deeded their home to your mother and your uncle, perhaps reserving a life estate for themselves.

I am sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. If the home is in both her name and your uncle's name, depending on the way the deed is written (joint tenancy with rights of survivorship vs. tenants in common) the house would either go entirely to your uncle (rights of survivorship, unlikely, this is usually used for couples) or your mother's share would go to her heirs. If your mother had a will, it would pass according to the will. If she did not have a will, an administrator will have to be appointed to administer her estate. Depending on if she was married or if you have other siblings, her entire estate, including her portion of the home, would be divided. If your mother has no spouse and no other children besides you, then you inherit her entire share.

I am not sure what you mean when you say "sign off on the deed". Please clarify and I can give further imput.

Read more
Answered on 6/28/10, 6:38 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Probate, Trusts, Wills & Estates questions and answers in New York