My second cousin is deceased, as of about ten years ago. She had mineral rights in Carter County, Ok. It has come to my attention that she had told another relative that she wanted me to have her mineral rights after her death, along with her personal items, that I received No one seems to know if there is a will. I do have the location of the mineral rights. I recently sold my mineral rights that were next to hers.
I would like to look into this and would be so pleased if I could get some direction on this.
Thank you so much.....
The best way to approach it is to recognize that we are a country of laws and due process. Your second cousin could have wished anything that she so desired for you. Unfortunately, her wishes may not have come to fruition.
Here is some direction. Have someone go to Carter County, or contact them over the phone. They might charge you a search fee, meaning they might want 5 bucks or something to see if cuz had a will, or not.
If she did not have a will, her intent with regard to you will not matter. Her estate will pass according to the laws of descent and distribution of the State of Oklahoma.
If she had a will and it was probated, it would most likely be probated in the county of her residence, not where she owned minerals.
If the cousin died without a will, and had no spouse, no kids, no living parents, and you were the closest living relative, it is still possible that you would be the one to end up owning cousin's mineral interest.
If it is determined that your cousin died without a will, and none could be located, you should file an affidavit in Carter County detailing information about her heirs, date of death, etc...
Thank you for your input. I do understand that there is much more to it than just going with her wishes, as it should be. Your suggestions are most helpful and I am going to take your advise, She lived in Houston and I will start there. Thanks so much....
Dave Quincy said:
If she had a will and it was probated, it would most likely be probated in the county of her residence, not where she owned minerals.
If the cousin died without a will, and had no spouse, no kids, no living parents, and you were the closest living relative, it is still possible that you would be the one to end up owning cousin's mineral interest.
If it is determined that your cousin died without a will, and none could be located, you should file an affidavit in Carter County detailing information about her heirs, date of death, etc...