Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania

My sister in-law tricked my husband into signing his rights to their mother's estate away to her. Afterwards, they each recieved a check for half of an insurance policy that they hadn't known about. She is insisting he give his half to her as part of the estate. Is it? or is it separate and he should keep his half?


Asked on 3/21/12, 9:04 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

Life insurance proceeds are covered by contract law - that means that if the policy names beneficiaries, the beneficiaries are entitled to the proceeds, and the proceeds are not part of the estate. If no beneficiaries are named, the proceeds are paid to and become part of the estate. The estate would be governed by Will provisions if there was one, or by intestate law if there was no will.

There should be an executor or administrator who is handling the estate administration. That person has to follow the law.

If your husband things that his rights have been compromised, he should consult with an estates lawyer.

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Answered on 3/21/12, 9:13 am


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