I have previously discussed the ongoing issues surround the estate of late actor and comedian Robin Williams. One unique thing about the estate planning that was done for Robin Williams was the planning for how his likeness will be used as well as other unique personal attributes. “While Mr. Williams created a multi-tiered estate plan, he was sure to include the right to profit, or, more accurately, to curtail a person, company or entity from profiting from his likeness and publicity for 25 years following his death.” Robin Williams placed a blanket ban on the use of his likeness and other personal attributes and then bequeathed the rights to a non-profit foundation in a trust document. People often use trusts as a way of avoiding the probate process.
See Robin Williams: Not Just Another Celebrity Estate, Wealth Management, February 19, 2016.
Special thanks to Jim Hillhouse for bringing this article to my attention.
