Court Opinion

ID: 9533392
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-07 04:31:24.360417+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T13:29:02.519853
License: Public Domain

SULLIVAN, Judge,
concurring with separate opinion.
I concur but write separately to add my observation concerning the warranty deed executed by Lucile to the Brownfields on the same day she executed her will. This observation is made only because it may appear at first blush that execution of the warranty deed has a material impact upon whether Lucile adequately expressed an intention in her will to exercise the power of appointment.
In my estimation it is important to emphasize the fact that the 16.9 acres involved was owned by James at his death and became part of the trust estate. Absent exercise of the power of appointment, Lucile had no authority or standing to convey the property, whether by deed or otherwise.
One may surmise, and it is quite possible, that Lucile's actions were intended to cover every possible eventuality or legal construction in order to make sure that the Brownfields received title to the land. Be that as it may, because the acreage was part of the trust estate, the deed was wholly ineffective with respect to the real estate. Thus, as held by the majority opinion herein, Lucile clearly and adequately expressed her intent to exercise the power of appointment granted under James's will.