The Legal Battle Over Aretha Franklin's Handwritten Wills
A trial will determine which of two handwritten wills left by Aretha Franklin, the late singing star, will be honored. The legal action involves millions in royalties, as Franklin never created a formal, typewritten will despite her health problems and musical legacy. One will, dated 2010, was found in a couch, while another, dated 2014, was discovered in a notebook under cushions in Franklin's home. The sons have differing opinions on which will should control the estate. Michigan law states that a handwritten will is valid if it's in the deceased's handwriting, dated, and signed.