Probate is over but got a letter from cousins lawyer

[Lowexpectations]

Originally Posted by akrausz

From what you have said, I wouldn't respond. It's not your concern at the moment. A judge approved what you received. A judge has to approve any amount to be returned (if it ever comes to that).

Typically a judge doesn’t approve amounts distributed by an executor unless I’m missing something. Someone is given the responsibility by the court and they execute.

[MarianRavenwood]

Originally Posted by evening sun

It is a letter from their lawyer, saying they should have received money from the estate. I think the executor should be responsible for this, as I had no control over who got what. As he died without a will, they would have a right to a share of the money, I don't know why she (executor) dropped them.

You had no control over 'who got what' but....you do have control over what you received.



Are you certain that the executor distributed the funds the way the court ordered? Is it possible the executor distributed funds contrary to court order?



Perhaps the executor failed to distribute the funds to these relatives as required by the court, and they are just starting with this letter to see if they can resolve the matter in a friendly way, without having to go to court? If there's a chance you received funds erroneously, and you ignore the letter, you'll probably end up in court anyway so it might be in your best interest to return money if it's not supposed to be yours.

[Axxlrod]

If you're not the executor, then I don't think it's your problem.

You didn't gift yourself the money. You received what was deemed your share. If other make claims to the estate, then they will have to go through the court, and the court will let you know if you have to give them some of the money.

[akrausz]

Originally Posted by Lowexpectations

Typically a judge doesn’t approve amounts distributed by an executor unless I’m missing something. Someone is given the responsibility by the court and they execute.

Well this law firm used the word "approve":
https://finitylaw.com/resources/prob...probate-court/

Regardless of the word choice, my point was that it was court-supervised.