Probate attorneys help clients navigate the confusing legal issues that may arise following a loved one’s death. Throughout history, there have been many high profile probate cases that highlight how a lawyer can assist in settling a loved one’s estate. Below are a few to consider.

History’s Most Significant Probate Cases

1. Anna Nicole Smith

When the infamous celebrity Anna Nicole Smith married billionaire J. Howard Marshall II, many people, his family in particular, were skeptical due to their 62-year age gap. Less than two years after the wedding, Marshall died, leaving his fortune to one of his sons, E. Pierce Marshall. Both Anna and Marshall’s second son, J. Howard Marshall III, contested the will. Despite both Anna and J. Howard’s own deaths in the 2000s, the probate battle wages on.  

2. Tom Carvel

If you’ve ever enjoyed soft ice cream, you can thank Tom Carvel. Before he became wildly successful developing one of America’s first franchises, Carvel began his business in 1929 selling ice cream out of a truck. Following his death, a probate case unfolded, which focused on Carvel’s will. According to it, his fortune should be placed in a trust to be donated to charities he supported. His family disputed the will and assumed foul play, even having Carvel’s body exhumed in 2009 to be tested for signs of poisoning. The battle continues to play out to this very day.

3. Jimi Hendrix

When legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix died in 1970, he left behind no will to determine how his estate should be arranged. His considerable estate was therefore “up for grabs,” with a probate case that lasted more than 30 years. Cases like Hendrix’s are considerably challenging, as many musicians continue to make money due to royalties long after they are gone.

4. Bob Marley

Like Hendrix, the beloved musician Bob Marley had a large estate that continued to generate revenue after he passed away from cancer in 1981. While it surprises many that Marley lived for eight months following his diagnosis and still never drafted a will for his $30 million fortune, it likely doesn’t come as a shock that dozens of people claimed to deserve a piece of his estate.

If you ever find yourself in need of an estate lawyer skilled in probate settlements, turn to Lance S. Cox, Attorney At Law in Cincinnati, OH. With over 30 years of experience handling complex legal cases for clients, this probate expert has gained a reputation for guiding clients through a variety of complicated legal processes, including planning a will and starting a small business. He and his skilled staff also assist with individual and business tax preparation from start to finish, ensuring clients receive every cent and tax credit they are eligible for. To learn more about Lance S. Cox Attorney at Law and his legal services, visit his website. To schedule a consultation, call his office directly at (513) 528-6000.