They had the wedding. They had the child. Everyone in their lives called them husband and wife. One of them never signed the certificate. When he died at 35, the law saw two roommates, and she could not claim his body. This is not about money. It is about who is allowed to act when it matters.
Transcript
What I said in this clip, lightly edited for readability.
I have a story to tell. Guess what. So there is a couple in their thirties. There was a huge wedding. They consider each other husband and wife, everybody knows they're husband and wife, and they have a kid together.
And suddenly the husband collapses and dies at age 35. And what happened is that one of them didn't sign the official marriage certificate. So in the eyes of the law, they're roommates. Right? The wife couldn't even pick up the body.
It's about what you want, the dignity. It is so unnecessary, and it's so hurtful. And people don't think about these little things that hurt them in the long run.
More on this topic: Estate Planning
More From the Seminar
- She Was on the Joint Accounts. That Was All She Controlled.
- Ten New Relatives Appeared a Year Into Probate
- Why You Only See Funeral Photos of Some Celebrities
Book a free consultation, or call (818) 788-7881.
Attorney advertising. This content is general information, not legal advice.