Mother-In-Law’s Filing System

Expert, localized Los Angeles answers provided by Heather Roy

Mother In Laws Filing System
	Edith – I saw that question about co-heirs not wanting to do their fair share on inherited property. My Mother-in-law had that problem with cousins who wouldn’t help with expenses on property they co-owned and this was her solution. First she set up an elaborate filing system – I believe it was a size 7 ½ brown winter boot, a recording device ( #2 pencil), and a ledger (black and white marble cover). As she paid the bills she recorded and filed – for 15 years. When the property was at last sold, the attorney for the estate computed her money spent along with interest and issued checks.She got almost the entire amount. Of course those who never spoke to her anyway still didn’t, but those who did, apologized. The lawyer told her she could have claimed the whole thing because she paid the taxes all those years, but she chose family harmony.

	I particularly enjoyed your description of that filing system. Despite what the lawyer may have said, though, I think it would be difficult to get a court to award ownership.Just paying the taxes wouldn’t usually be enough.
	Edith Originally published on August 6, 2006

	Back to Summary	< Previous \| Next >


SEARCH: Search for questions about Mortgage, Finance & Taxes

Mother In Laws Filing System