Trusts For Pets - Fido´s Fiduciary?

Article by John Brooks, Maureen McGinnity, Greg Monday and Michael Taylor

Summary

This article discusses the changing legal status of our pets as evidenced by various statutory enactments around the country. These new laws are sure to create not only new planning opportunities for our clients, but controversies as well.

As usual, the round-up of cases from around the country covers a broad range of issues. From Illinois, yet another case on the inheritance rights of adopted individuals, the interpretation of a one-line will and an interesting application of the Principal and Income Act. From Minnesota, a noteworthy case holding that other related documents executed contemporaneously with a will may not be considered extrinsic evidence and may be considered when construing the will. From New York, cases touching on issues related to a bigamous marriage, assignment of rights to an inheritance and the implied revocation of advance health care directives. Finally, from North Dakota, a