Advocates are hoping that the high profile nature of the Brooke Astor estate looting trial will serve as an impetus for increased attention and meaningful reform in the areas of estate abuse and elder exploitation. In February 2009, the Los Angeles Times reported that in addition to being investigated by a grand jury, the Department of Consumer Affairs denied California conservator Melodie Scott a license due to false claims submitted on her application. An Oct. 20 licensing hearing is scheduled during which an Oakland Administrative Court will address this matter. This proceeding will serve as an important example of whether exposure of questionable conduct in probate matters can lead to substantive investigations and actions or if “reforms” might only be viewed as legislative window-dressing designed to give the public a false sense of protection under the law.
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Estate of Denial® provides news, analysis and commentary on abusive practices occurring in probate courts and via probate instruments (wills, trusts, guardianships, powers of attorney). We provide original perspective to educate the public regarding this growing threat to both individual freedoms and property rights.
