The spouse is usually named the executor of a partner’s estate but it is important to consider that decision when a divorce occurs.
The divorce of the former lead singer of Stone Temple Pilots, Scott Weiland, caused controversy in the naming of the executor of his estate following Weiland’s death last year of an apparent overdose. At the time of his death Weiland was married to Jamie Watchel. However, Weiland’s ex-wife, Mary Forsberg, submitted a will to probate and asked the court to name her as the executor.
Weiland created the will in 2007 and named Forsberg as his executor but they were divorced a few months later.
The Daily Mail has more on this story in “Ex-wife of Scott Weiland claims SHE is the executor of his will despite Stone Temple Pilots singer remarrying two years ago.”
It is possible that Weiland still wanted his ex-wife to act as his executor. However, that seems unlikely as, according to Forsberg, he had little to do with his two children from their marriage after they divorced. The children never entered his home and he allegedly did not always send child support.
Thus, it is likely that Weiland made a classic estate planning mistake. He forgot to update his estate plan after getting a divorce.
After every major life changing event it is important that you review your estate plan and update it as necessary. Divorce definitely qualifies as such an event.
Meeting with an estate planning attorney for a review and update following a major life change such as a divorce could avoid problems.
Reference: Daily Mail (Jan. 5, 2016) “Ex-wife of Scott Weiland claims SHE is the executor of his will despite Stone Temple Pilots singer remarrying two years ago.”
