Copeland v. Richardson

This appeal is from an order of the Probate Court of Jefferson County recognizing Betty P. Richardson as the common law wife of the late William H. Richardson. Brenda Copeland, the daughter of the deceased, appeals from the trial court's determination.

Betty and William Richardson were formally married from 1974 to 1981. Approximately one year after their divorce in 1981, Betty moved back in with William, where she lived until his death in 1987. Upon William's death, his daughter, Brenda Copeland, was issued letters testamentary, and William's will was admitted to probate. Betty Richardson…