One of my parents has been separated from their spouse for a long time (about 5 years, maybe longer). They don't want to apply for divorce for various don't-want-to-upset-the-apple-cart reasons. Same parent will inherit significant assets when my grandparents die (which could be 10 years away, but hopefully longer ).
I have always been suspicious about step-parent's motivations for the relationship and marriage. Very manipulative, etc.
I have just learned through InveSTAR's thread about purchasing a property during divorce settlement proceedings, that if something terrible should happen to my grandparents suddenly, and my parent inherited, that the inherited money would be considered as part of the divorce settlement, even though they have been seperated loooong before the inheritance took place.
Grandparents are wise to the fact that spouse is manipulative although I don't know if my parent has told them that divorce proceedings have not started yet. Parent may have told them that divorce is in fact finalised for all I know.
So.. my question is, is there anything my Grandparents can do (like a trust?) to prevent the spouse from getting their money in the event that my parent does not divorce and settle before they die?
Any input much appreciated.
I have always been suspicious about step-parent's motivations for the relationship and marriage. Very manipulative, etc.
I have just learned through InveSTAR's thread about purchasing a property during divorce settlement proceedings, that if something terrible should happen to my grandparents suddenly, and my parent inherited, that the inherited money would be considered as part of the divorce settlement, even though they have been seperated loooong before the inheritance took place.
Grandparents are wise to the fact that spouse is manipulative although I don't know if my parent has told them that divorce proceedings have not started yet. Parent may have told them that divorce is in fact finalised for all I know.
So.. my question is, is there anything my Grandparents can do (like a trust?) to prevent the spouse from getting their money in the event that my parent does not divorce and settle before they die?
Any input much appreciated.