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…)
Our oldest son is spending the day with us. I love Thanksgiving because I have so much to be grateful for. My family tops the list. I have three great kids. Ten years ago as I saw my children growing up and leaving the home I wished that I could freeze time. Well it didn’t happen, but honestly I can’t imagine life without our two cute daughter-in-laws, our son-in-law and our six wonderful grandchildren.