The passing of Aretha Franklin has continued to be a tough pill to swallow for many; however, things have gotten a bit more complicated as news broke that the legendary singer passed without a will.
According to court documents obtained by TMZ, the Queen of Soul died "intestate," or without a will at the time of death. While Franklin's attorney, Don Wilson, says it's impossible to put a dollar amount on her song catalog, Franklin's estate is reported to be sitting pretty at $80 million. Despite his constant prodding, the singer never took the step to dictate where her money should go in her passing.
"I was after her for a number of years to do a trust," Wilson, who represented Franklin in entertainment matters for the past 28 years, told the Detroit Free Press. "It would have expedited things and kept them out of probate, and kept things private."
According to Michigan law, Franklin's four sons will share equally in her estate. According to the Free Press, the four brothers filed a document listing themselves as interested parties in her estate. Franklin's niece, Sabrina Owens, has also asked the court to appoint her as personal representative of the estate. The fact remains that without a will, court battles for her assets by creditors or extended family members could ensue.
"I just hope (Franklin's estate) doesn't end up getting so hotly contested," Wilson said. "Any time they don't leave a trust or will, there always ends up being a fight."
Franklin passed on August 16 in her home after battling pancreatic cancer. Her outstanding career spanned almost 60 years. Fans will be able to pay their respects to the "Rock Steady" singer during a public viewing at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on August 28 and 29. Her funeral, which is limited to close family and friends, will be August 31 at Greater Grace Temple before being laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery in Detroit.
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