In re the Estate of Pikul

OPINION OF THE COURT

Murphy, P. J.

Diane Pikul was slain by her husband, Joseph Pikul, who was thereafter charged with having murdered her and, after a lengthy trial, found by a jury to be guilty of that offense. As it happened, however, Joseph Pikul died before he had been sentenced and his conviction was accordingly abated by operation of law.

Petitioners in the present proceeding are the temporary administrators of the estate of Diane Pikul. They seek a declaration to the effect that Joseph Pikul forfeited any right he may have had to succeed to the property of Diane Pikul by reason of his…