Messina v. Scionti

OTT, Acting Chief Judge.

Upon the death of Santa Mirabella, her son Sebastian and her daughter Constance Scionti, two of Santa’s seven surviving children, were appointed personal representatives of her substantial estate. On the last day of the statutory period for doing so, Constance filed a claim to title to the family home or, alternatively, $50,000, based on an alleged oral “life-care” contract.

The matter of Constance’s claim had been the subject of discussion ever since the probate proceeding was initiated. The heirs were divided on the issue of her entitlement. Sebastian, Constance’s…