I am a service-disabled combat veteran and mother of two. My beautiful mother passed away on 9/25/2023. She was employed with McDonald’s for 30 years and resided in Florida. I moved to Florida 2 years ago so that my children could be near her. I left for the Army only three months after high school until around 26 years old. My mom was 18 when she had me and I have two younger half brothers. She was married to my stepfather for 19 years. After being informed my mother had no will, I attempted to request her estate information from my stepfather. Intestate Succession laws dictate that her beneficiaries receive half her personal assets. He has not probated her estate and did not anticipate me understanding what an estate was and that I aware of my beneficiary rights. He knew that it would be expensive to litigate the estate in court and has continued to breach his duty. The situation is worst because I am not from Florida and he is a police officer. I am being intimidated and he has had the vehicle gifted to me from my mother voluntarily repossessed even though it was in her name. I am unaware of where the vehicle was taken or where it was being financed. This is a blatant and bold attempt to hinder my progress and intimidate me. I have spoken to litigation attorneys who believe I have a solid case and need to get the process started immediately. It will cost around $5,000 to retain the attorney. Another $5,000 will assist with any court costs necessary to force my stepfather into Probate. I am my mother’s first born and only daughter. He believes his daughter that lived with him and my mother for three years, is entitled to my mom’s assets despite the law saying otherwise. These funds will be distributed to my attorney and every little bit helps. My mothers love was unconditional and he has chosen to not only dishonor her wishes but to also break the law. As a police officer, he has to be brought before the court to face his actions. Thank you for taking the time to read my story. $JLMarie33