The house is in my name from Life Estate made 10+ years ago. He had minimal contact with mom, none for a 10 year stretch. He has written letters, a couple a year for the last 12 years, usually asking for money. Now he is claiming that he inherited 1/4 the house when my father died in the 60's? The house was in both my parents names jointly and passed to my mother who held the deed solely in her name until the Life Estate.
When I went to the lawyer with the Will, he said there was nothing left to probate. The money was in joint accounts with me, not that there was much more than the funeral, and there wasn't much in the house. He said the house is mine already. The Will left everything to me anyway and nothing to my brother, there is a lot more background story but I'm trying to make this short. Now that I've heard from him I'm going back to the lawyer. Knowing my brother, there will be no end to this.
I think I should just let the lawyer handle it? Anyone have advice?
He suggested I write the letter, being as nice as possible. He'll look it over before I send it. After that he will take care of all further contact.
This is the hardest thing I've ever had to write. So many mixed emotions. On the one hand, its terrible news to send someone and I'm feeling selfish. On the other, I remember all the horrible things he's done to my mother. Plus there's the fact its like writing to a stranger as I haven't spoken to him in over 25 years!
I would also start documenting his contact with you in case he does threaten or become violent and you need to request a restraining order.
It would be helpful if one of the experts (the forum attorneys) opinions on this issue.
And for what specifically is he asking? Does he want you to pay him a 1/4 share of the value of the house?
I think what I might do to stop him now is to sweetly write to him (don't call as you'll have no documentation) and ask him specifically what it is he wants, but of course don't offer anything. Flush him out and find out what's going on.
Set a deadline for his response so this doesn't drag on and on.
In the meantime calculate the expenses of the house (especially property taxes, homeowners insurance) and be prepared to send him a bill for 1/4 of each year's annual costs, all the way back to the date he claims he inherited 1/4 share.
If that doesn't stop him, ask your attorney to contact him directly and establish the facts once and for all.