Chapter 7
Vance shifted on his feet. "Your Honor, a single doctor's note does not account for the drastic change in behavioral patterns—"
"It is not a doctor's note, Mr. Vance," the judge cut him off sharply. "It is a forty-page clinical evaluation from one of the foremost neurologists in the state. Sit down while Mr. Brennan is speaking."
Thomas smiled faintly and continued. "As for the allegation of paranoia: Mrs. Mitchell installed security cameras and hired security personnel because she was repeatedly harassed and pressured by the petitioners to sell her primary residence against her explicit wishes. The petitioners claim they have 'managed her affairs' since Richard Mitchell's death. That is a complete fabrication. Mrs. Mitchell has managed her own investments, paid her own taxes, maintained her own property, and lived entirely independently."
Thomas turned slightly, glancing at the three siblings.
"The petitioners did not come to Denver on December 23rd to celebrate Christmas. They came because Mrs. Mitchell had finally stopped answering their demands regarding Richard Mitchell’s life insurance policy, her investment portfolio, and the deed to the family home. When she refused to capitulate to their demands, they attempted to physically breach her property, scaling her security gate."
"That's a lie!" Michael blurted out from the table, unable to contain himself.
Judge Alvarez slammed her gavel down with a sharp crack that echoed off the high mahogany walls. "One more outburst from you, young man, and you will spend the rest of this hearing in a holding cell for contempt. Do not test me."
Michael shrank back into his chair, his face white, Jennifer frantically grabbing his arm beneath the desk.
"Now," Judge Alvarez said, her eyes narrowing as she looked at Thomas. "Mr. Brennan, while the medical evidence clearly refutes any claim of incapacity, Mr. Vance did raise a point regarding the estate. The petitioners claim significant, unexplained transactions have occurred over the last ninety days regarding Mrs. Mitchell's assets. Is the estate intact?"
A triumphant look crossed Jennifer’s face. She leaned forward, clearly believing that this was the moment the trap would spring. They believed I had spent the money, given it away, or hidden it illegally.
"I am delighted you asked, Your Honor," Thomas said smoothly. "Because Mrs. Mitchell requested that we present the full restructuring of her estate directly to the court today, so that there is no ambiguity whatsoever moving forward."
Thomas walked over to the clerk and handed across three bound copies of legal documents. One went to the judge, one to the clerk, and one was placed directly on the table in front of Bradley Vance.