Riggs v. Palmer

22 N.E. 188 (1889)

Facts

Palmer made his last will and testament in which he gave legacies to his two daughters (P). The remainder of the estate was given to Elmer (D), his grandson. D lived with his grandfather and as a member of the grandfather’s family and D was 16 at Palmer’s death. D knew of the provisions in the will and also knew that Palmer was inclined to revoke them. To stop this revocation, D murdered Palmer by poison. Ps filed this suit after D was convicted of the crime. D claims that the property is rightfully his per the will. Ps claim under equity that the property should not go to the murderer. The trial court granted the property to D, and Ps appealed.