In Re Estate of James

The essential question involved in this case is whether the plaintiffs, nonresident aliens, are entitled to inherit real estate in the State of Nebraska, and if not, whether they are entitled to reasonable compensation for the value of the land escheated to the State of Nebraska.

Plaintiffs’ petition alleges that Hussan James, a resident of Sioux City, Woodbury County, Iowa, died intestate on July 4, 1962. His only heirs are the four plaintiffs in this case who are aliens, resident nationals of Syria. The decedent owned 80 acres of land in Cedar County, Nebraska, and ancillary probate…