Florida Woman Faces Charges for Allegedly Altering Stepfather’s Will

A Florida woman is facing criminal charges for grand theft, fraud and forgery after she allegedly altered her stepfather’s will to steal the inheritance. According to reports, the 46-year-old woman filed court documents in July 2013 shortly after her stepfather passed away. In those documents, she falsified the value of his estate and forged her siblings’ signatures.

The documents on which the woman forged her siblings’ signatures stated specifically that they waived any right to their stepfather’s estate, which included a modified recreational vehicle that was valued at more than $100,000. The defendant allegedly traded the vehicle for a new Audi and another car for her son.

In addition, the woman allegedly lived in her stepfather’s home after recording a quitclaim deed that transferred the property into her name. She has now lived in the home for several years, and her siblings have been unable to make use of the property. She is now facing serious criminal charges and the judge set her bond at $100,000.

Conflicts may arise after a loved one’s death

Although this particular case appears to be extreme, it’s somewhat common for estate matters to become contentious among beneficiaries. Many families become embroiled in conflict related to a loved one’s estate after someone dies. In the worst cases, a person may even take steps to alter documents to gain a financial advantage over other family members and friends.  If this happens in your family you should consider involving a Florida estate litigation attorney at BaumannKangas Estate Law.

As you plan for the future, it’s important to remember the benefits of setting up a sound estate plan with your attorney. For more information and to get started, meet with an experienced Florida wills and trusts lawyer at BaumannKangas Estate Law.