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William Stevenson Homicide Case: What You Should Know About High-Profile Criminal Accusations and Estate Planning Implications

William Stevenson Homicide Case: What You Should Know About High-Profile Criminal Accusations and Es

For California residents navigating estate planning, trust administration, or probate matters—understanding how criminal accusations can impact inheritance, family dynamics, and asset protection is critical.

On February 3, 2026, The New York Times reported that William Stevenson, the ex-husband of First Lady Jill Biden, has been accused of killing his current wife. This shocking development raises not only criminal law questions but also profound estate planning and probate concerns that California families should be aware of—especially when criminal allegations intersect with inheritance rights, trust administration, and family protection strategies.

Who Is William Stevenson and Why Does This Case Matter?

William Stevenson is known publicly as the former spouse of First Lady Jill Biden. While the details of the homicide accusation are still emerging, the case has drawn national attention due to Stevenson’s high-profile connections and the serious nature of the charges.

For California residents, this case serves as a sobering reminder: criminal accusations—whether proven or alleged—can have devastating consequences on estate plans, inheritance rights, and family wealth transfer strategies.

How Do Criminal Accusations Affect Estate Planning and Probate in California?

If you or a loved one are managing California-based assets, you may be asking: “What happens to someone’s inheritance rights if they’re accused of a crime? Can a beneficiary be removed from a trust or will?”

Here’s what California law says:

1. The Slayer Statute: Killers Cannot Inherit from Their Victims

California Probate Code Section 250 prohibits anyone convicted of murdering a decedent from inheriting from that person’s estate. This is commonly called the “slayer statute.”

  • Applies to wills, trusts, life insurance, and joint tenancy: If someone is found guilty of homicide, they are disqualified from receiving any inheritance or benefit from the victim’s estate.
  • Civil standard of proof may apply: Even without a criminal conviction, California courts can apply the slayer statute if there’s clear and convincing evidence of the killing in a civil probate proceeding.
  • Protects surviving family members: The disqualified heir’s share typically passes to the next eligible beneficiaries, preserving family wealth for those who deserve it.

    • 2. Trust Contests and Removal of Trustees

    If the accused individual is a trustee or beneficiary of a trust, family members may petition the court to:

  • Remove the individual as trustee if they pose a risk to estate assets
  • Challenge distributions or actions taken by the accused
  • Freeze trust assets pending the outcome of criminal proceedings

    • California Probate Code Section 15642 allows courts to remove a trustee for breach of trust, including criminal conduct that threatens the estate.

    3. Protecting Your Family from Similar Scenarios

    Many California families are now asking: “How can I protect my estate from criminal accusations, family disputes, or unworthy heirs?”

    Here are proven strategies used by experienced estate planning attorneys:

  • Include no-contest clauses: Discourages frivolous litigation by penalizing beneficiaries who challenge your plan without cause.
  • Use discretionary trusts: Gives your trustee flexibility to withhold distributions from beneficiaries involved in criminal conduct or substance abuse.
  • Name independent trustees: Choosing a professional fiduciary or neutral third party reduces conflicts of interest and family drama.
  • Update your plan regularly: Life changes—divorce, remarriage, criminal issues—should trigger an immediate estate plan review.

    • What Should California Residents Do If a Beneficiary or Trustee Is Accused of a Crime?

    If you’re dealing with a trust or probate matter where a beneficiary, trustee, or family member has been accused of serious criminal conduct, here’s what to do:

    Step 1: Consult an Experienced California Probate and Trust Attorney Immediately

    Do not wait for a conviction. California law allows probate courts to take protective action even before criminal proceedings conclude. An attorney can help you:

  • File a petition to suspend the accused trustee
  • Freeze distributions pending investigation
  • Protect estate assets from dissipation or misuse

    • Step 2: Gather Documentation

  • Copies of the trust or will
  • Police reports or criminal filings (if available)
  • Financial records showing any suspicious transactions

    • Step 3: Act Quickly to Protect Family Interests

    Time is critical. If assets are being mismanaged or transferred improperly, swift legal action can prevent irreversible harm.

    Why California Families Choose California Probate and Trust, PC

    At California Probate and Trust, PC, we’ve represented thousands of California residents facing complex estate planning and probate challenges—including cases involving criminal allegations, trustee disputes, and family conflicts.

    Here’s why families trust us:

  • Certified Estate Planning Specialists: Our team includes attorneys with advanced certifications and decades of combined experience.
  • Transparent, Fixed-Fee Packages: No surprises. We offer clear pricing and free consultations so you understand your options upfront.
  • Compassionate, Client-First Approach: We know estate planning and probate can be emotionally overwhelming. We guide you with empathy and expertise.
  • Offices in Sacramento, Fair Oaks, and San Francisco: Convenient locations throughout Northern California.

    • Take Control of Your Family’s Future Today

    Whether you’re creating a new estate plan, updating an old one, or dealing with a trust dispute involving criminal allegations, we’re here to help.

    Schedule your FREE estate planning consultation with California Probate and Trust, PC today.

    📞 Call us at (866) 674-1130

    🌐 Visit cpt.law to learn more

    Don’t leave your family’s legacy to chance. Protect what matters most with a comprehensive estate plan designed for California law.

    Legal Disclaimer

    This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every estate planning and probate matter is unique and depends on specific facts and circumstances. The information contained in this article is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Readers should not act upon this information without seeking professional legal counsel tailored to their individual situation. California Probate and Trust, PC makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content herein. For specific legal guidance, please contact a qualified California estate planning attorney.