But as the search for Prince’s last decree continues, the number of parties eagerly filing paperwork to claim some of the musician’s fortune has climbed to an undignified figure.
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Other claimants include two other people who say they are step-sisters of Prince, two women whom claim to be the musician’s niece and grand-niece, and a man who claims to be his son.
First Judicial District Judge Kevin Eide said he was “in no rush to determine whether one particular person is an heir”, but instead was focused on “whether certain classes or groups of heirs are legally excluded”.
At the heart of the inheritance issue are questions such as: Who was Prince’s biological father, and does it even matter when determining his heirs?
Earlier this month it was reported that the legendary singer died of an opioid overdose, though the official results of his autopsy have yet to be made public.
“Delay can damage this estate, that’s the reality of this business”, he said.
Eide, who ordered lawyers at the hearing to not identify their clients by name, must now decide whether that paternity claim should be examined through DNA testing.
Before Prince died, there were reports he wanted to turn Paisley Park into a museum; a tourist attraction. He did leave behind a sister and at least five half-siblings.
At stake for these prospective heirs is not just a slice of Prince’s estate, valued between $100 and $300 million, but a say in how his music, and his legacy, will be preserved and marketed.
“This case is perhaps unique in the state of Minnesota”, he said.
“There is no indication that a will exists, and we basically now have looked under every box lid”, he said.
Brian Dillon, an attorney for Tyka Nelson, urged Eide to act quickly.
“I would ask that the court make take more time to sort through the complexity of these issues”, said Celiza Braganga.
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Eide went as far as saying he’ll forward his ruling to an appellate court for additional review, further delaying any final resolution.
