Monday, October 1, 2001
Bonnie Allen v. Mararete Dalk

no. 01-2

Marion County


Christel D. McPeak, a native of Germany, died in May 1999 in Ocala. Before her death, she had a will made out. In the presence of her attorney and witnesses, McPeak acknowledged this document as her last will and testament but, due to oversight, neglected to sign it as required by law. After her death, a dispute arose between the beneficiaries named in her will-an American sister-in-law and her children-and McPeak's half sister in Germany. The trial court resolved this dispute in favor of the sister-in-law and her children, but on appeal the Fifth District reversed.