If my father was still legally married to my mother at the time of his death but lived with his mistress for decades, what legal grounds does my mother have to his estate?

If my father was still legally married to my mother at the time of his death but lived with his mistress for decades, what legal grounds does my mother have to his estate?

He was married to my mother for 65 years; he lived with his mistress for 55 years. My father owned the house he lived with his girlfriend; 4 months prior to his passing he added her name to the deed on the house. Note, the house my mother lives in was also owned by my father and mother. His girlfriend has a copy if the Will but won’t give us a copy. This is in a community property state.

Asked on February 3, 2013 under Estate Planning, California

Answers:

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