Celebrity Estate Planning: Misfires of the Rich and Famous VIII

Day Pitney Trusts & Estates Attorney Benjamin N. Millard draws practical lessons from celebrity estate-planning missteps in a co-authored article published in the September/October 2026 issue of the American Bar Association’s Probate & Property.

In his contribution to “Celebrity Estate Planning: Misfires of the Rich and Famous VIII,” Ben examines the estate of Grateful Dead frontman Jerry Garcia, whose will was too simple to adequately address his diverse assets and complicated personal life. Disputes involving an unfinished settlement agreement, ownership of his guitars, and fiduciary appointments led to years of legal conflict and family friction, while the probate process opened his family and estate to creditor claims and public scrutiny.

The article underscores the importance of thoughtful, tailored estate planning to protect unique assets, preserve privacy, and ensure wealth passes according to an individual’s wishes.

Read the full article here.