“This is not a casual family paper,” she said finally. “This is part of a larger estate structure.”
“What does that mean?” I asked.
“It means there should be records. Bank statements. Trustee reports. Annual notices. Tax filings.”
“I’ve never received anything.”
Maren’s expression did not change, but her pen stopped moving.
“Nothing?”
“Nothing.”
She turned to Richard. “Did you?”
“No. Not after Claire turned eighteen. Before that, I received two summaries through my attorney, then communication stopped.”
“On what basis?”
“My brother-in-law claimed Claire’s mother had assumed administrative control under a family agreement.”
Maren frowned. “Was there such an agreement?”
“No.”
The word was quiet but heavy.
Maren made another note.
“This may take time,” she said. “But we can begin by requesting the original trust file from the drafting firm. Do you remember the firm?”
Richard nodded. “Benton, Vale & Harrow. Richmond.”
At that, Maren looked up sharply.
