On August 28, 2020, actor Chadwick Boseman, best known for the blockbuster movie “Black Panther,” died of colon cancer at age forty-three. His death came as a shock to fans and the general public, due to his young age and the fact that he kept his illness and medical treatments private. Shortly before his death, Boseman married his longtime girlfriend, Taylor Simone Ledward, leaving behind an estate valued at $938,500.

Boseman is survived by Ledward as well as his parents, Leroy and Carolyn Boseman. However, Boseman also died without a will, according to papers filed in Los Angeles County probate court on October 15. Ledward filed what’s called a “petition for letters of administration” in LA’s Superior Court, which is a request to be named the administrator of Boseman’s estate.

When an individual dies without a will, it is called dying “intestate.” Per California law, the surviving spouse inherits all community property, and splits any separate property with the decedent’s parents. Although the $938,500 is likely not a true reflection of Boseman’s full wealth and assets, the rest is likely in private trusts, which are not subject to probate.

Securing a letter of administration would give Ledward the authority to distribute these assets and protect Boseman’s estate from financial predators or ineligible claims.

Why it’s important to have a will

Boseman was only 43 at the time of his death. Many people haven’t even begun to think about a will at such a young age. Some people haven’t begun to think about a will at all. In fact, according to a survey from Caring.com:

• The number of Americans with wills is actually decreasing – down nearly 25% since 2017
• Older and middle-aged adults are less likely to have an estate planning document
• Many individuals lack the knowledge and resources to acquire a will – in 2020, 12% of Hispanic-Americans said they “don’t know how to get” a will, which is up a whopping 200% from 2017
• Although 60% of Americans think wills and estate planning are important, nearly 36% say they “haven’t gotten around to it”

Although it may seem difficult or daunting, creating a will as part of your estate plan is important for protecting your loved ones after your death. With the help of an experienced wills and trusts attorney, this can be easier than you think – and crucial to ensure your assets and property go where you want them to go.

Without a will, decisions about your estate can end up in the hands of the courts, and a judge has control over distribution of your assets. With an estate plan designed by an attorney, your wishes are spelled out in detail and you drastically reduce the chances of anyone challenging the validity of your will.

To talk about your estate plan, reach out to the attorneys at the Carey Law Office today. We work with individuals and families in Bowie and Crofton. Call us to schedule a consultation at 301-464-2500 or fill out our contact form.