E233 Probate Problems with Sibling Rivalries

<p>We all know siblings who are constantly competing or comparing with each other. Let’s talk about how those rivalries cause problems during probate.</p> <h2>Which sibling inherits more?</h2> <p><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-10742" src= "https://anthonyspark.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Which-sibling-inherits-more-300x169.jpg" alt="Which sibling inherits more?" width="300" height="169" /></p> <p>If there is any slight <a href= "https://anthonyspark.com/e53-how-to-navigate-family-inheritance-drama-with-grace/"> imbalance of inheritance amounts</a>, there’s an issue of who was the favorite. Or maybe it’s an issue of who took care of mom or dad at the end of life. Maybe there is compensation or gratitude for whoever dedicated the time when things got difficult at the end. It might also be a reflection of who already received lifetime gifts or support. Maybe the parent helped with a down payment for one sibling's house or tuition for another sibling’s children.</p> <p>There could be many reasons for each sibling inheriting different amounts, but the siblings will see it the way they want to see it, and this imbalance can create conflict.</p> <h2>Which sibling gets more control, communications during probate?</h2> <p><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-10743" src= "https://anthonyspark.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Which-sibling-gets-more-control-communications-300x169.jpg" alt="Which sibling gets more control, communications?" width="300" height="169" /></p> <p>It’s not just about competing for dollars or inheritance amounts. Even if everything is divided equally, there could still be disputes or harsh feelings about who gets to be the executor. In this case, it may be better to hire an independent executor. It could relieve some stress.</p> <p>But, even if you have an independent executor, there could be disputes about who talks to the lawyer/executor more! We get this a lot: “I heard that my sister emailed you several times, and I want to know everything you told her.”  Making the attorn