Feinstein files lawsuit for late husband’s trust control due to hefty medical expenses.
Sen. Dianne Feinstein Fights for Control of Late Husband’s Estate
Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) has launched a legal battle to gain greater control over her late husband’s estate in order to cover what her lawyers describe as “significant medical expenses.” Her 65-year-old daughter, Katherine Feinstein, who has power of attorney for her mother, filed a petition on Monday alleging that the current trustees of her late husband’s trust have denied her mother’s requested assets. The filing claims that the trustees, Marc Scholvinck and Michael Klein, were improperly appointed after the death of Feinstein’s husband, financier Richard Blum.
Legal Dispute Over Trust Control
Katherine Feinstein, a former San Francisco Superior Court judge and stepdaughter of Richard Blum, is suing for control of the trust, claiming that the trustees have refused to fulfill the senator’s requests for money. The lawsuit filed with the San Francisco Superior Court states, “Despite the settlor’s intent to support his spouse after his death, the purported trustees have refused to make distributions to reimburse Senator Feinstein’s medical expenses.” Feinstein is the sole income beneficiary of Blum’s marital trust, which includes a life insurance policy and its proceeds.
Steven Braccini, an attorney for Scholvinck and Klein, responded to the filing by stating that the trust has never denied any disbursement to Senator Feinstein, including medical expenses. He also questioned Katherine Feinstein’s power of attorney and expressed hope that the situation could be resolved amicably.
Hearing Scheduled for September
A hearing has been scheduled for early September to address the legal dispute. In response to the news of the filing, Senator Feinstein’s office stated, “This is a private legal matter. Senator Feinstein and her office won’t have any comment.”
Feinstein’s Health Challenges and Political Impact
Feinstein, the oldest member of the Senate, has faced health challenges in recent months. After being diagnosed with shingles in February, her absence from the Senate hindered the Democrats’ ability to advance President Joe Biden’s agenda. With a slim majority in the Senate, even one absence can give Republicans the opportunity to block partisan efforts.
Despite criticism from within her own party about her ability to fulfill her duties, Feinstein announced that she would not seek reelection in 2024 but would serve out the remainder of her term. She has remained steadfast in her commitment to her role as a senator, describing it as her ”calling.”
Feinstein’s health issues, including Ramsay Hunt syndrome and post-shingles encephalitis, have kept her largely out of public view. Reports have detailed the impact of these conditions on her vision, balance, and cognitive abilities. While her office has acknowledged the effects of Ramsay Hunt syndrome, they have not specifically addressed the encephalitis matter.
Despite the challenges she faces, Feinstein has vowed to continue serving until the end of her term, refusing calls for her resignation. Her determination to fulfill her duties as a senator remains unwavering.
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