Can a Child Who Kills Their Parents Still Inherit Their Estate? Understanding California’s Slayer Statute

## For California Residents Facing the Unthinkable: How State Law Protects Your Estate from Those Who Harm You

If you’re a California resident concerned about protecting your assets and ensuring your estate goes to the right beneficiaries—even in worst-case scenarios—this guide explains how California’s Slayer Statute works and what it means for your estate planning strategy.

The tragic case involving the Reiner family has brought renewed attention to a critical but rarely discussed aspect of inheritance law: Can someone who kills a family member still inherit from their victim’s estate?

Source: Digital Journal – Will Nick Reiner Be Entitled to His Inheritance?

## What Is California’s Slayer Statute?

California’s Probate Code sections 250-259, commonly known as the “Slayer Statute,” provides clear legal protections for estates when a beneficiary is accused of killing the person whose estate they would inherit from.

Key provisions include:

If someone “feloniously and intentionally” kills another person, they are automatically disqualified from receiving any inheritance from that person’s estate

This prohibition extends to all property, interests, and benefits under wills, trusts, and other estate instruments

The law protects both direct inheritances and indirect benefits that the killer might otherwise receive

## How Does This Apply to Real California Families?

While parricide (the killing of one’s parents) is rare—accounting for only about 2% of homicides in the United States, with approximately a quarter involving both parents—California families need to understand how these protections work.

### What Happens Before a Criminal Conviction?

This is where estate planning and probate law intersect in complex ways:

Presumption of innocence: The accused remains legally innocent until proven guilty

Access to estate funds: The accused might attempt to access estate funds to pay for legal defense

Other beneficiaries’ rights: Family members and other beneficiaries can file actions in California Probate Court to prevent any distributions until the criminal case concludes

### Real-World Impact on Estate Distribution

In cases where multiple children are beneficiaries (like the Reiner case, which involves four children), the remaining beneficiaries must navigate:

Probate court proceedings while criminal investigations are ongoing

Decisions about whether to freeze estate distributions

Management of substantial assets (estates worth $200 million or more require sophisticated planning)

Coordination between criminal proceedings and probate administration

## What This Means for Your California Estate Plan

For California residents creating or updating their estate plans, understanding the Slayer Statute provides important context for several planning decisions:

### Questions to Discuss with Your Estate Planning Attorney:

Contingent beneficiaries: Who inherits if your primary beneficiary is disqualified?

Trust protections: How can trusts provide additional safeguards for your assets?

Family dynamics: Are there complex family situations that require special planning?

Asset protection: What mechanisms can protect your estate from potential legal challenges?

### Why Comprehensive Planning Matters

While most California families will never face circumstances involving the Slayer Statute, this law illustrates why thorough estate planning is essential:

State law provides automatic protections, but they only activate under specific circumstances

Without proper planning, estate assets can be tied up in lengthy court proceedings

Clear documentation of your wishes provides guidance even in unexpected situations

Professional legal counsel ensures your plan accounts for California-specific regulations

## How California Probate and Trust, PC Can Help

At California Probate and Trust, PC, we understand that estate planning isn’t just about documents—it’s about protecting your family and ensuring your wishes are honored, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Our approach for California residents includes:

Transparent consultation: We offer free initial consultations to discuss your unique family situation

Comprehensive planning: From basic advance healthcare directives to complex multi-generational trust strategies

Family-centered guidance: We take time to understand your family dynamics and potential challenges

Probate and estate planning expertise: Whether you’re planning ahead or navigating probate now, we provide integrated solutions

### Take Control of Your Estate Planning Today

Don’t leave your family’s future to chance. Whether you’re concerned about complex family situations, want to protect significant assets, or simply need guidance on basic estate documents, California Probate and Trust, PC is here to help.

Contact us today for your free consultation:

Phone: (866) 674-1130

Website: cpt.law

Offices: Serving California residents from Sacramento, Fair Oaks, and San Francisco

We’ve helped thousands of California families create estate plans that provide peace of mind and protect what matters most.

## Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information presented is based on California law as of January 2026 and may not reflect the most current legal developments. Every family’s situation is unique, and estate planning laws are complex and subject to change. This article discusses a specific news case for educational purposes and should not be interpreted as legal guidance for any particular situation. For advice regarding your specific circumstances, please consult with a qualified California estate planning attorney. California Probate and Trust, PC offers free consultations to discuss your individual needs. No attorney-client relationship is created by reading this article or contacting our firm for general information.