How to Handle Inheritance Greedy Siblings: Protect What’s Rightfully Yours

Dealing with inheritance greedy siblings can be one of the most emotionally draining and legally complex parts of estate settlement. It’s unfortunate, but many families face disputes when it comes time to divide assets—especially when one sibling decides to take more than their fair share.

Whether it involves manipulating parents, stealing from the estate, or abusing legal authority, these situations can leave rightful heirs feeling powerless. Fortunately, legal action can help you protect your inheritance from siblings who attempt to act unethically.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the most common tactics used by inheritance greedy siblings and the legal remedies available to stop them in their tracks.

1. When a Sibling Pressures a Parent to Transfer Property

It’s not uncommon for siblings to begin influencing a parent well before their passing. Often, the sibling who lives nearby or serves as a caregiver may convince the parent to transfer property directly to them while still alive. While it may appear as an act of gratitude, this behavior often stems from manipulation and intent to cut out other heirs.

Legal Action: Undue Influence Claims

If you suspect the property was transferred under undue influence, you may have grounds for legal action. Once the parent passes away, you can file a lawsuit to challenge the transfer. To build your case, you’ll need to:

• Show that the sibling had motive and opportunity

• Present evidence of dependence or vulnerability (e.g., medical conditions, mental decline)

• Provide proof that the sibling played a role in drafting or arranging the transfer

Although these cases can be complex, circumstantial evidence can support your claim.

2. Abuse of Power of Attorney to Redirect Assets

Another troubling tactic involves the misuse of a power of attorney (POA). A parent may have appointed a child as their financial agent, expecting them to act in their best interest. But when that sibling transfers assets to themselves, especially for below-market value or no consideration, it’s considered self-dealing.

Legal Remedy: Void the Transfer

If you believe this occurred, it’s critical to consult with an experienced estate attorney. Courts can void the transaction and hold the sibling accountable for breaching their fiduciary duty. Proper documentation and timelines are essential to prove the abuse of power.

3. Manipulation in Changing the Will

Sometimes, a sibling may go as far as convincing a parent to revise their will, cutting other heirs out. If you were unexpectedly excluded from a will or your share was significantly reduced, undue influence may be to blame.

Contesting the Will

In Florida, you can challenge a will if you believe it was created or changed under coercion. If successful, the court may reject the will and distribute the estate based on Florida’s intestacy laws, giving all siblings an equal portion. It’s vital to act quickly, as contests are time-sensitive.

4. Sibling Stealing From the Estate Before Inventory

After a parent’s death, another red flag is a sibling stealing from the estate before the official inventory. Jewelry, artwork, cash, and personal items may conveniently “disappear” before the estate’s contents are documented.

Legal Action: Turnover Proceedings

If assets go missing, the estate’s personal representative can initiate discovery and turnover proceedings. This process helps identify what was taken, who took it, and forces the return of stolen property. A court order can compel the sibling to return the items or their value.

5. Misappropriation of Estate Funds by the Personal Representative

If a sibling is appointed as the personal representative (executor) of the estate, they have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of all beneficiaries. However, some inheritance greedy siblings take advantage of this power and use estate funds for personal gain.

Legal Remedy: Removal and Surcharge

You can petition the court to remove the representative and pursue a surcharge action, holding them financially accountable for any losses. If the representative sells property below market value or violates estate laws, a restraining order may also be requested to halt transactions and recover losses.

Protecting Your Inheritance From Siblings

Inheritance disputes are often deeply personal and emotionally charged. If you’re wondering how to protect your inheritance from siblings, here are some key tips:

• Stay informed: Understand the estate plan and your rights as a beneficiary.

• Keep records: Document any suspicious activity or changes in your parents’ financial or legal documents.

• Get legal support early: Don’t wait until it’s too late—an estate attorney can prevent issues before they escalate.

• Challenge suspicious transfers: If something feels off, speak up. Legal remedies exist to reverse unfair decisions.

Let Us Help You Take a Stand Against Greed

At the Law Offices of Mary E. King, we know how sensitive and stressful these situations can be. Whether you’re concerned about a sibling stealing from the estate, manipulating your parents, or hiding assets, our experienced estate planning and probate attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way.

We specialize in protecting your family’s legacy and ensuring your loved one’s wishes are honored—fairly and legally.

Don’t let greed destroy what your family built. Contact us today for a consultation and find out how we can help you fight back and protect your inheritance.