Unveiling Legacies: The Triumph of Forensic Genealogy in Estate Resolution

When Christian Mahoney, a lifelong bachelor with no children and predeceased by his brother, mother, and father, passed away, the attorney appointed by the court as the dependent administrator faced the daunting task of managing an intestate estate valued in the mid-six figures. Recognizing the complexity of the situation, the attorney enlisted the expertise of HeirSearch to locate potential heirs who could rightfully claim a substantial inheritance.

Navigating the Genealogical Maze

Although the attorney had never met the decedent, their connection through the same church initially spurred involvement. The attorney also mentioned that the attorney ad litem appointed had identified a possible heir but encountered difficulties in establishing contact.

Armed with the information and documentation provided by the attorney, our team of research experts embarked on an extensive journey. We commenced our investigation by delving into the genealogy of both paternal and maternal grandparents, utilizing an obituary of one paternal aunt, Melanie Mahoney, as a starting point. Through meticulous scrutiny of divorce records and other vital documents, we navigated through potential complexities to identify Level III heirs of the decedent.

Overcoming Challenges, Uncovering Connections

Our research progressed methodically, leveraging census records and vital documents to trace familial lines. Despite challenges in accessing family records, we pieced together a comprehensive picture, uncovering the existence of ten paternal and twelve maternal grand aunts and uncles.

The process involved exhaustive examination of various public records, overcoming hurdles such as incomplete or irrelevant information and hints of possible adoptions within the family. Drawing on years of experience, our forensic genealogists adeptly navigated these obstacles, ensuring no stone was left unturned in the quest to locate missing heirs.

Delivering Justice and Closure

Upon the culmination of our research, our client was elated to receive an extensive Affidavit report detailing over 120 potential heirs. Expressing gratitude, the attorney remarked, “They located heirs that nobody else could find! Thanks to HeirSearch, I can fulfill my responsibilities as a dependent administrator, and the estate can be distributed to the rightful heirs.” The attorney also highlighted the significance, stating, “Thanks to HeirSearch, 8 people who never met the decedent will be sharing a very unexpected inheritance.”

In essence, the successful resolution of this estate exemplifies the power of forensic genealogy in uncovering legacies and ensuring rightful heirs receive their due inheritance, even in the most complex of circumstances.

If you are an attorney faced with an intestacy, HeirSearch can help! Our researchers identify and locate missing or unknown heirs for probate, and we do so efficiently. We work exclusively with executors, administrators, trustees, fiduciaries, bank and trust officers, and their counsel to establish kinship for legal purposes. With our search services, we can help ensure an heir is located and not be a contributing factor to a prolonged estate distribution process.

We offer no-cost, no-obligation consultations, even if you are not planning to start a search right away. Feel free to reach out with any questions you might have — we look forward to connecting!

Contact us today or request a quote.

Phone: +1 (800)-663-2255

Disclaimer: Although accurate in scope, all identifying information such as names, dates and locations have been changed in order to protect the privacy of individuals.
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