Q: How do I protect my interest in a dual inheritance?
When my grandmother passed away, she left the house and land equally to me and my aunt. Instead of selling the house and dividing the proceeds, my aunt has continued to live there since her passing. Currently, my aunt and I are somewhat estranged and I do not know what preparations she has made. Assuming that my aunt does not have a will, how would her passing affect my inheritance? Are there any actions I can take proactively to protect my interest? My aunt never married and does not have any other immediate family. I am the closest relative. I am not really concerned about any other belongings (i.e., furniture, etc.).
A:
There are several options you could pursue, but they will all depend on how the property is titled. Please feel free to call me to discuss further.
Evan Lohr
Attorney at Law
(919)348-9211
evan@lohrnc.com
A: It sounds like you are now a 50% owner with your aunt, assuming your grandmother's estate was properly probated. when your aunt passes you will then share ownership with whoever HER heirs are, 50% owned by you still, and 50% owned by her heirs. If you happen to be your aunt's sole heir, then you will become the sole owner when your aunt's estate is probated.
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