A recent New York Times article on the passing of Juan Hamilton—the caretaker, confidant, and protégé of renowned painter Georgia O’Keeffe—has rekindled interest in the legal battle surrounding her estate. When O’Keeffe passed away in 1986 at the age of 98, she left behind an artistic legacy worth millions. Shawna A. Brown, Counsel in the Elder Law Practice Group at Mandelbaum Barrett PC, examines how the distribution of O’Keeffe’s estate became the center of intense scrutiny and litigation, raising the ever-relevant question of undue influence in estate disputes.
A May-December Friendship
O’Keeffe met Hamilton in the 1970s when she was 85 and he was 27. Childless and widowed, O’Keeffe lived far from her relatives, surrounded mostly by admirers and strangers who revered her artistic genius. O’Keeffe initially hired Hamilton for small tasks, but his role quickly expanded and he ultimately managed her communications, oversaw her artwork, and became her gatekeeper. Over time, he was granted power of attorney, managed her affairs and was named beneficiary of approximately $90 million in artwork in her will.
Allegations of Undue Influence
After O’Keeffe’s death, one of her nieces challenged the will, alleging that Hamilton had unduly influenced her to leave him the bulk of her estate. While O’Keeffe’s family argued that Hamilton manipulated her into favoring him, others contended that he had been her closest companion and caregiver, providing her with joy and purpose in her final years. The case was eventually settled, reverting the estate to an earlier will that allocated millions to O’Keeffe’s family while still allowing Hamilton to retain significant assets.
A Common Estate Dispute
Though O’Keeffe’s case is high-profile, similar situations unfold frequently. It is not uncommon for an elderly individual to leave their estate to a caretaker, a close friend, or a single relative who was present at the end of their life. Such bequests often prompt challenges from other family members who feel excluded, suspecting undue influence.
Courts assess undue influence claims by examining whether the beneficiary exerted excessive pressure, isolated the individual from others, or manipulated their decisions. In some cases, undue influence is proven, leading to the will being invalidated. In others, the decedent’s choice to leave their assets to a devoted caretaker is upheld as a legitimate act of gratitude and trust.
At Mandelbaum Barrett PC, our Elder Law attorneys frequently represent both beneficiaries facing estate challenges and family members contesting wills on the basis of undue influence. Understanding both sides of these disputes allows us to anticipate legal arguments, navigate complex family dynamics, and advocate effectively for our clients. If you are involved in an inheritance dispute, we are here to guide you through the process and work toward a fair resolution.
For more information, contact our Elder Law team today.