Lorain, OH asked in Estate Planning, Real Estate Law and Probate for Michigan

Q: Retrieving property from deceased home

My step father, no legal connection, has passed away leaving his home to his sister by default. I have lived on avd off at the residence for years and have thousands of dollars worth of property in the house. The sister is refusing entry to retrieve my belongings, and I was informed that someone broke in and stole /destroyed everything. What can I do to recover my losses please.

1 Lawyer Answer
Kenneth V Zichi
Kenneth V Zichi
Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Fowlerville, MI
  • Licensed in Michigan

A: Do you have a list of the property and serial numbers/identification information etc? You need that first. If not, you are probably out of luck no matter how you shake this down. PARTICULARLY for stuff that doesn't have a title or traceable ownership info, this is going to be difficult at best. You really can't do much without proof that the stuff was owned by you.

Is the property really stolen? Has a police report been filed? If not -- file one and make sure the police know you are filing this 'on information provided by others' so when the property turns up not stolen they don't go after you for filing a false report.

-- This answer is offered for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney/client relationship.

I am licensed to practice in Michigan only. Please seek competent local legal help if you feel you need legal advice

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