A US state of Maine probate court has made a decision to allow Young’s Lobster of Belfast to keep operating under the ownership of Raymond Young following the death of his father, Robert R. Young, in 2017.
The decision comes after years of family drama that found the Young siblings fighting over the authenticity of a will, according to the Bangor Daily News.
Young’s Lobster Pound was operated by Robert Young until his retirement in 2000, upon which his son, Raymond, began operating the business. Robert passed away in 2017, leaving Raymond at the helm.
However, two of Robert’s other children — Robert F. Young Jr. and Dianne (Young) Parker — came forward with a claim that their father had handwritten a new will days before his death that removed Raymond from the will.
The handwritten note not only removed Raymond from employment and inheritance of the business, but also terminated the lease of the lobster pound and authorized that the property and equipment be sold at auction. The new will stated that the proceeds, after taxes, be donated to Dana-Farber Hospital in memory of Robert’s late wife, and also transferred a piece of property in Belfast to Parker.
The Waldo County Probate Court determined on Aug. 8 that there were “substantial issues” with the handwritten will — including inconsistencies in the handwriting and signature. Robert’s attorney and accountant also came forward with claims that Robert wouldn’t have made such drastic changes without consulting his team.
Raymond retains control over the property for now, but could face an appeal from his siblings.
