You Snooze, You Lose; Failing to Object in Time in a Will Contest.

Michael Jacksons’ siblings are trying to challenge his will.

Michael Jackson Family Feud: Lessons for Wills and Trusts

The problem is, they waited too long.  They had notice of the will, they had notice of the probate, and they didn’t object within 120 days.
I don’t know whether the will is a forgery; but this case illustrates two things about will contests.
First, they waited too long; they had notice of the will and simply didn’t act fast enough.  Florida law can give as little as 20 days notice to people to contest a will; if you don’t file your objection, you are out of luck.
Second, even if  the siblings were to  win, and have the will thrown out,  and declared invalid, unless there was another, earlier will admitted to probate, Jackson’s children would get the estate outright; none of this money would go to Jackson’s siblings, his brothers or sisters.  The point is, it looks like they may not have thought this through; they are taking on a very expensive fight that they have a slim chance of winning, and even if they do win in the sense of getting the will thrown out,  even then, they might not benefit if all of the money goes to Jacksons’ children and not to his siblings.

If you are involved in, or might be involved in, a will contest,  or might want to challenge a will in The Villages, Florida, it is very important to speak to an attorney; please call my office and I will be happy to speak with you.

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