Rosa Parks's refusal to give up her seat on an Alabama bus made her a living symbol of the civil rights movement. But long after her death, her estate continues to be a source of contention. Late last month, the Michigan Supreme Court granted an order restoring the people whom Parks had originally chosen to run her estate. This is the latest in a series of reversals in a dispute that began nearly 7 years ago.

When Parks died in 2005, her will specified that her estate would be managed by a retired district court judge and by her friend and caregiver, with whom Parks founded the Rosa and Raymond Parks Institute for Self Development. Parks also left most of her assets, currently estimated at $8 million, to the Institution. Unhappy with the will, one of Parks's nephews challenged its validity, claiming that Parks was demented and had been manipulated by her friend.

Years of fighting followed, which included the removal and now subsequent reinstatement of the people Parks chose as executors for her estate. A settlement between the parties was reached in 2007, which gave 80 percent of the estate to the Institute and Parks's friend, while her nephews and nieces received 20 percent.

Other posts on this blog have cautioned against the danger of not having a will. Rosa Parks did have a will, but her case demonstrates the need to have a clear and strong will. The writer of a will cannot prevent a person who feels slighted from challenging it. But the writer can consult with an experienced attorney and make sure that all legal requirements are met, building a will that can withstand potential challenges to its validity.

Source: Detroit Free Press, "The secrets are out on deal to settle suit over Rosa Parks estate," David Ashenfelter, Feb. 5, 2012.