On February 20, 2014, a California judge approved the request of the actor Paul Walker’s father to be made executor of his son’s estate. Walker died on November 30, 2013, in a fiery car crash in Santa Clarita. In his will, he named his father, Paul Walker Sr., executor of his estate. The younger Walker passed away with a reported $25 million fortune. His 15-year-old daughter, Meadow Rain Walker, was named as the sole beneficiary of his estate.
Also present at the hearing in which the elder Walker was appointed executor was Meadow’s mother, Rebecca Soteros, and Paul Walker’s mother, Cheryl Walker. Walker’s will appointed his mother legal guardian of his daughter. Any issues relating to guardianship, however, were not raised during the hearing. Meadow is currently living with her grandmother. Prior to her father’s death, she had been living with him in Southern California. Before that, she lived in Hawaii with her mother. While final determinations have yet to be made as to Meadow’s guardianship and custody, all sides reportedly agree that she should live in California for now.
For parents of minor children, appointing a guardian and ensuring that the child will be taken care of in the manner that they desire is often a primary concern. Without proper planning, a court may ultimately decide how and with whom your child should be raised. This decision is not always in line with your wishes had you properly addressed the issue in your estate plan.
A California judge appointed the late Paul Walker’s father executor over his estate. Other issues remain, however, including custody of his minor daughter.
Did you find this article interesting? Please share it with your friends and family on Facebook!