Tag: Family Disputes
Celebrity Estates: The John Amos Estate Dispute with Michael Napoleone

Celebrity Estates: The John Amos Estate Dispute with Michael Napoleone

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Family drama doesn’t end when the spotlight fades.

On this episode of the Celebrity Estates podcast, litigator Michael Napoleone joins Wealthmanagement.com Senior Editor David Lenok to unpack the bitter dispute over actor John Amos’s estate, and what it reveals about aging, trust and family dynamics.

From allegations of elder abuse and undue influence to sibling rivalries turned legal battles, Michael shares what really happens when communication and transparency break down. Drawing on years in the courtroom, he explains why longer lifespans, cognitive decline and blended families are fueling a rise in inheritance disputes — and how proactive planning can protect both wealth and relationships.

Key Takeaways:

  • Why family disputes over caregiving and inheritance are rising as people live longer and cognitive decline increases
  • How isolation, blended families and uneven caregiving fuel mistrust and legal challenges
  • The difference between exploitation claims (while alive) and undue influence claims (after death)
  • The crucial role of fiduciaries and when a neutral party may prevent emotional and financial fallout
  • Why clear communication about estate intentions can prevent surprise, resentment, and years of litigation

Resources:

Connect With David Lenok:

Connect With Michael Napoleone:

About Our Guest:

Michael Napoleone is a seasoned litigator with a proven track record of success representing businesses, individuals, and fiduciaries in complex, high-stakes disputes. He has litigated a wide array of matters, including theft of trade secrets, corporate shareholder disputes, contested wills and trusts, claims of fiduciary misconduct, land use conflicts, and high-value real estate litigation. His extensive courtroom experience spans jury trials, bench trials, appeals, and alternative dispute resolution forums such as arbitration and mediation.

Known for his strategic approach and persuasive advocacy, Michael is regularly called upon to handle cases where the outcome is critical and the legal issues are complex. His clients rely on him not only for his legal acumen but also for his ability to navigate sensitive, high-conflict situations with clarity and confidence.

In addition to his legal practice, Michael has held many leadership roles within the legal profession and local government. He is a past president of the Palm Beach County Bar Association and served on the Executive Board of the Palm Beach County Early Learning Coalition. He currently serves as the elected Mayor of the Village of Wellington, Second Vice President of the Palm Beach County League of Cities, and on the Executive Board of the Palm Beach County Transportation Planning Agency – positions that reflect his dedication to public service and his deep understanding of governmental and regulatory systems.

Michael’s dual background as a skilled courtroom advocate and respected civic leader makes him a trusted advisor in both legal and policy arenas.
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

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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

Resources:

Connect With David Lenok:

Connect With Neil Solarz:

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.