Tag: Family Disputes

Celebrity Estates: John Amos and Warning Signs of Elder Abuse in Estate Planning

Celebrity Estates: John Amos and Warning Signs of Elder Abuse in Estate Planning

John Amos, an actor who starred in such television shows as Good Times, The Mary Tyler Moore Show and The West Wing, is believed to have died from congestive heart failure, but his only daughter Shannon has doubts. She has accused her brother of elder abuse, including isolating Amos from others, impersonating him in communications and disregarding his medical needs.

Join David Lenok as he speaks with Neil Solarz, shareholder and director at Winestock Manion, about estate planning, wealth transfer and trust administration. With over 30 years of experience and a deep commitment to his clients, Neil sheds light on a topic often overlooked in financial advising—elder abuse and the complexities of end-of-life care. 

This episode highlights the delicate balance between respecting clients’ autonomy and protecting them from potential abuse, offering actionable insights for advisors and families alike.

Key takeaways:

  • Complexities of elder abuse and family disputes using the late actor John Amos’s estate controversies as a case study;
  • How geriatric psychiatrists and lawyers can offer valuable insights to support decisions;
  • Common warning signs of elder abuse;
  • The importance of proactively updating estate plans; 
  • And more

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About Our Guest:

Neil Solarz counsels his clients on estate planning, wealth transfer and trust and probate administration. Applying over 30 years of experience and an empathetic, caring approach, Neil focuses on getting to know his clients, their families, business dealings and concerns. His clients appreciate this effort, as it helps Neil drive consensus among family members during the planning phases and reduces the emotional stress common to trust and probate administration.