Lisa Marie Presley, the only child of Elvis Presley (the ‘King’ of music) and Priscilla Presley, passed away at just 54 in January of this year. This blog examines Lisa Marie’s estate and how her will has caused family controversy.
The Life of Lisa Marie Presley
Lisa Marie was a talented singer and songwriter. When her father died, she became the sole beneficiary of his estate. Lisa’s parents separated when she was four. She lived with her mother but frequently visited her father, Elvis. Following his footsteps, she pursued her passion for music, releasing three solo albums between 2003 and 2012.
Charity work was important to Lisa Marie. She actively supported several charities assisting homeless people and cancer patients in the UK and the US. She married four times, with notable spouses including Nicholas Cage and Michael Jackson. Lisa Marie also had four children.
The Controversy Surrounding Lisa Marie’s Will
Lisa Marie Presley’s will offers a strong example of proper estate planning’s importance. You must ensure your estate is entirely in order while alive. This includes updating it after significant life changes and covering all aspects of your estate.
Priscilla Presley is currently contesting her daughter’s 2016 will. She argues the will is invalid. If her argument succeeds, the 2010 will would take effect. This document names Priscilla and Riley Keough (Lisa Marie’s eldest daughter) as co-trustees of the estate.
The petition specifically disputes a 2016 change to Lisa Marie’s will. This change removed her mother as a trustee. Priscilla argues her name was misspelled on the document, and Lisa Marie’s signature appeared inauthentic. Furthermore, no witnesses signed it. Priscilla only learned of this change after her daughter’s death. A separate will change removed her former business manager, Barry Siegel, replacing him with two of her children, Riley Keough and Benjamin.
In Summary: The Importance of Clear Wills
This case highlights the complex “grey areas” that can arise in estates when procedures are not correctly followed. You can avoid unnecessary and stressful battles after a loved one’s death with correct planning.
Contact Probate Forms for probate advice on 0209 9859553.
