What is the “slayer rule” in regards to inheritance?
What is the “slayer rule” in regards to inheritance?
If you’ve ever watched a TV show or movie where someone receives an inheritance, you may have wondered what the “slayer rule” is. In short, it’s a law in many states that states that if someone dies, their money and property will go to the next person in line—usually a spouse or children. There are some cases where it could be someone else, like someone who was chosen as an executor of the estate. The “slayer rule” makes sure that even if someone has to go before getting their inheritance, they still get what they were supposed to get. No matter how much you might want to give your loved one a little something extra for being such a great person and friend, if you choose to do this, it can cause problems with the inheritance being given out exactly as it should be.
The “slayer rule” is the general idea that you can’t bequeath your property to someone who might use that bequest against you in a lawsuit. In other words, if you leave your land to an heir who might sue you for some reason—say, a long-lost relative who suddenly shows up years later claiming to be your son—you might also have to leave behind enough cash to cover legal costs. The rule can have its basis in common law or state statutes. You can make this stipulation in a will or through a trust. If a person is accused of using their relationship with the deceased as a motive for murder, the slayer rule is meant to protect assets that would otherwise be vulnerable if the beneficiary were unable to access them due to court proceedings.
If you need an Inheritance Lawyer, please call this law firm for a free consultation.
Ascent Law LLC
8833 S Redwood Road Suite C
West Jordan UT 84088
(801) 676-5506
