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Got a question in case anyone has been through something like this or knows what steps I need to take. My step-dad died couple years ago and was involved in Mesothelioma lawsuit. Well I was notified by a family member of mine that the suit was awarded and they are looking for family members since he passed away and my cousin is basically telling the law firm he is only living family member, when he isn't. He is just the only one who knows the lawyers info. I don't care who really ends up with any money as long as it isn't him. He has screwed over his entire family out of any and all inheritance. I rather give it too charity or anyone else. Any info on what steps I might be able to take or do on this?

I would contact an attorney and let them try and track down the lawsuit. They have methods of finding cases. They will probably want a small fee, but would be worth it to make sure the cousin doesn't get it.

Also, if the law firm that won the settlement does not do their due diligence to determine who the rightful ere's are, then I would think they would be liable for failing to make sure the settlement went to the appropriate recipients.

I contacted Sokolove Law Firm as they came up when looking that suit up. I explained to a supervisor what is happening and that I wasn't even sure what law firm was handling it. He took mine and dad's info said it might take a day or two but he would get back with me on it. Sucks to hear this, I mean I loved him but we wasn't very close and honestly don't want any of the money (although I could use it) but I feel it should go to others who took care and helped him. My cousin did help him but on other hand screwed him over so much through life, and he has screwed over much of the family in this same style. He is doing very good with 1k's of acres of land living great while the rest of the family struggles to make it. I haven't talked to him in 20 yrs or more and not totally sure if I really have a leg to stand on being I was a step-child, but if I can see others get what they deserve or at least part of something.

Did he adopt you by chance? If your stepdad adopted you, you have more of a leg to stand on actually.

No wasn't adopted, I do have a handwritten will (if can find it) from him probably 30 yrs ago. Sokolove called back this morning getting little more info on everything. He said he should know more within next few days.

Keith B wrote:I would contact an attorney and let them try and track down the lawsuit. They have methods of finding cases. They will probably want a small fee, but would be worth it to make sure the cousin doesn't get it.

Also, if the law firm that won the settlement does not do their due diligence to determine who the rightful ere's are, then I would think they would be liable for failing to make sure the settlement went to the appropriate recipients.

I think the word you were looking for here is "heirs."

Ere someone errs spelling heirs, they should look out for those who split hairs.

C-dub wrote:

Keith B wrote:I would contact an attorney and let them try and track down the lawsuit. They have methods of finding cases. They will probably want a small fee, but would be worth it to make sure the cousin doesn't get it.

Also, if the law firm that won the settlement does not do their due diligence to determine who the rightful ere's are, then I would think they would be liable for failing to make sure the settlement went to the appropriate recipients.

I think the word you were looking for here is "heirs."

Thank you spelling cop....

LucasMcCain wrote:Ere someone errs spelling heirs, they should look out for those who split hairs.

You go sit in the corner for a while until you learn how to behave in civilized society!

The Annoyed Man wrote:

LucasMcCain wrote:Ere someone errs spelling heirs, they should look out for those who split hairs.

You go sit in the corner for a while until you learn how to behave in civilized society!

To ere is humane, to forego divide!!

Jusme wrote:

The Annoyed Man wrote:

LucasMcCain wrote:Ere someone errs spelling heirs, they should look out for those who split hairs.

You go sit in the corner for a while until you learn how to behave in civilized society!

To ere is humane, to forego divide!!

You go to the corner too!

The Annoyed Man wrote:

Jusme wrote:

The Annoyed Man wrote:

LucasMcCain wrote:Ere someone errs spelling heirs, they should look out for those who split hairs.

You go sit in the corner for a while until you learn how to behave in civilized society!

To ere is humane, to forego divide!!

You go to the corner too!

Hoo is coroner two?
Did someone mention hunting hares?

Oh my, look what I've started.

Sending people to the coroner for spelling errors just ain't right.

Sorry guys. I don't want you to think I'm putting on airs.