By Lee R. Phillips

Brittany Murphy’s death has certainly come as a shock to the world.  In a way, it is even more shocking to learn that the death was “due to natural causes,” according to the Los Angeles coroner.  Her husband, British screenwriter Simon Monjack, is in shock and is quoted as stating, “I am feeling beyond devastated.”  The shock and grief associated with the death of a loved one can never be prepared for or softened.

The death of one as young as Brittany Murphy reminds us all of our fragile mortality and punctuates the uncertainty of life.  As an individual, I see a personal tragedy on several levels.  As an attorney, I hope she had her legal ducks in a row.  Her death reminds us of our obligations that need to be attended to.  It makes a huge difference.

Michael Jackson also died this year.  His death was also a personal tragedy, but he had done his legal homework, and his estate lives on.  You might remember that after his death the media squared off to have a heyday reporting on the financial dealings of his large troubled empire.  After the first week, it was disclosed that the foundation of his empire was a living revocable trust.  The trust had been maintained. (Just having a trust document isn’t enough.  It has to be used and “maintained.”)  I imagine the media gave a great groan, when they learned the trust was in place, because they were shut out of the juicy details of Michael Jackson’s estate. (more…)