Columbus, MI Estate Planning Law Firms & Lawyers

Absent issues of undue influence, lack of capacity, etc., which you do not raise in your inquiry. If you are an adult, that is your father's decision. He has no obligation to leave anything to anyone except for possibly a spouse or minor children. If you are neither, then you have no right to inherit. It is your father's choice. He could give it all away to charity if he so choose.

Unfortunately, the name on the deed carries with it a right to occupancy. If someone insists on a co-owner living elsewhere, the remaining occupant will have to the other co-owner pay rent for half of the property. If the co-owner's conduct warrants it, you may be able to obtain a restraining order. You do not provide enough information to analyse whether a restraining order is appropriate. That, however, may not eliminate your obligation to pay rent. In any event, you must respect his rights as a part-owner of the property.

You need to file a petition in the probate court to administer his estate immediately. This way you will determine who is entitled any part of the estate. Get yourself a probate litigation lawyer/attorney ASAP.