Menendez Brothers Resentenced—But the Slayer Rule Still Stands
What’s New?
On May 13, 2025, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge, Michael Jesic, reduced Lyle and Erik Menendez’s sentences from life without parole to 50 years to life, making the brothers immediately eligible for a June 13 parole hearing. They now have a realistic (though far from guaranteed) shot at walking free after 35 years behind bars.
Quick Refresher: Why the Menendez Estate Still Isn’t Theirs
In our original post, we explained how California’s Slayer Rule bars anyone who “feloniously and intentionally” kills another from inheriting that victim’s assets. A murder conviction treats the killer as though they died before the victim zero inheritance, no life insurance proceeds, no trust distributions. That rule hasn’t changed. Even if the brothers are paroled tomorrow, they remain permanently disinherited. The Slayer Rule is civil—not criminal—so resentencing (or even eventual parole) does nothing to restore inheritance rights.
- Estate Planning Takeaways for the Rest of Us -
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Lesson |
Why It Matters |
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1. Wills aren’t enough—use a fully funded trust. |
A trust can keep assets out of probate, add layers of protection, and ensure your wishes are carried out quickly—even when a shocking event rocks the family tree. |
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2. Name back‑up beneficiaries... and back‑ups for the back‑ups. |
If your primary heirs become ineligible (think Slayer Rule, divorce, addiction), a clear line of succession prevents assets from drifting to distant relatives or the state. |
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3. Review your plan every three years. |
Laws evolve (Massachusetts just tweaked its own Slayer‑style statute), family situations change, and asset values shift. A simple check‑in keeps everything current and bullet‑proof. |
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4. Communicate your wishes. |
Hidden resentment, secrecy, or conflicting expectations often explode after a death—sometimes literally, as the Menendez saga reminds us. Family meetings and clear letters of intent defuse drama. |
How Monteforte Law Can Help
- Free Three‑Year Check‑Up: If it’s been a while - or if you’re not sure your plan could survive a worst‑case scenario - book a complimentary review with our team.
Learn About Our Proprietary Trusts: Ask about the 20/20 Hindsight Trust and IRA Inheritance Trust to add extra layers of protection for high‑value estates. - Can’t Make Our Live Seminar? We now offer an engagement‑checkpoint webinar that still qualifies you for the $500 attendee discount—but you must watch and book your Strategic Planning Session within 24 hours.
Ready to safeguard your legacy (and keep the headlines out of your family)? Call 978‑657‑7437 or click here to register for our upcoming seminar to lock in your spot!
