— “The plaintiffs claim Judge Sterling was influenced. But the evidence shows he simply made logical conclusions based on observed behavior. He gave his daughter every opportunity. A chance to be there. She didn’t take it. Allison Sterling did. That’s not manipulation. That’s devotion.”
Vance paused, then took a calculated risk.
— “Your Honor, you knew Judge Sterling. You worked with him. You saw his character, his integrity. Do you believe he was a man who could be manipulated by his granddaughter? Or was he a man who made decisions based on principles and facts?”
Judge Miller remained expressionless.
— “The court will recess to review the evidence and reach a verdict.”
Thirty minutes felt like three hours. Finally, we were called back in. Judge Miller returned with a thick folder. My heart hammered. This was it.
— “I have carefully reviewed all the evidence and testimony,” he began. “My task is to determine if Judge Sterling’s will should stand.” He looked directly at my parents. “The plaintiffs claim Judge Sterling was under undue influence and was mentally unfit. The evidence supports neither of these claims. Multiple witnesses testified to his clarity of mind. His medical records show no cognitive decline. His attorney confirmed he was methodical and consistent in his estate planning.”
Diane was crying again. Steve looked angry, finally paying attention.
— “What the evidence does show is a pattern,” Judge Miller continued. “A pattern of absence from the plaintiffs and presence from the defendant. A pattern of financial consumption from the plaintiffs and financial responsibility from the defendant. A pattern of broken promises from the plaintiffs and kept commitments from the defendant. Judge Sterling didn’t need to be manipulated to see that pattern. He lived it for thirty-two years.”
My chest tightened. Here it comes.
— “The court finds that Judge Sterling’s will reflects his true intent, that he possessed full capacity, and that there was no undue influence. The will stands. The plaintiffs’ claims are dismissed.”
Diane sobbed. Steve muttered a curse under his breath, but Judge Miller wasn’t finished.
— “Furthermore, I am awarding legal fees to the defendant. The plaintiffs brought this suit without merit, causing unnecessary expense and emotional distress. They will bear all court costs.”
Palmer jumped up.
— “Your Honor, we respectfully ask…”
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