Will Contest, Inheritance Dispute and Estate Litigation Attorneys in Palm Beach County
Shortly after her death in 2018, Aretha Franklin’s family members discovered her two handwritten Wills, created in 2010 and 2014, respectively.
A legal dispute eventually ensued between three of Aretha’s four sons, as there was disagreement as to which of those Wills was the one that should govern their mother’s estate. Kecalf Franklin and Edward Franklin apparently favored the 2014 Will, while son Ted White II favored the 2010 Will.
Both Wills appeared to say that Aretha’s sons would share the income from The Queen of Soul’s copyrights and music. However, the dispute apparently arose primarily over the division of ownership of Aretha’s mansion, the percentage shares of which was far different between the 2010 and 2014 Wills, for each of the designated beneficiaries.
In late November 2023, a Michigan court decided in favor of the 2014 Will. While this has decided awards of Franklin’s real estate and other assets, disposition of her musical catalog, copyrights, likeness, and other memorabilia has yet to be determined. Aretha’s fourth son, Clarence Franklin, is under guardianship, and this court decision also states that his three brothers will be required to support him.
Will contests, inheritance disputes and other estate-related conflict, such as probate litigation, can result in protracted and expensive litigation, often with the accompanying result of permanently damaging familial relationships as well.
At Kitroser Lewis & Mighdoll, we offer our clients more than 100 years combined attorney experience creating the comprehensive, sophisticated estate plans our clients require to fulfill their wishes and provide them with the legal protections, security and peace of mind they need and deserve.
In the event you are confronted with a Will Contest, Probate Litigation, Trust Litigation or other estate-related dispute, we can provide the highly knowledgeable and tenacious advocacy you need to protect your interests.
North Palm Beach Office: 561 721 0600
Jensen Beach Office: 772 723 1400
