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Asked 5 months ago - San Rafael, CA
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I am 16 years old; my brother, sister & I were given stock certificates at birth from our grandfather, who has now passed away. My dad was named sole custodian.
It has increased in value significantly over the years.
I just found out that my dad has sold and spent much of my stocks, and ALL of my brother's and sister's. We didn't know about it and the money was all used for day-trading stocks, and he lost it all.
Since we are still minors, and he's the custodian, does he have the right to do this?
If he didn't have that right, what can I do? I still have more stock in his safety deposit box that he might also sell. The family doesn't want to get involved.
My brother and sister are 12 & 14 years old. I'm a Junior in high school. This money was supposed to be for our college.
It is a challenging and technical issue of fact whether your father was given possession of the stocks or control. If control, there are technical issues of fact as to whether he may have been entitled to exercise certain liquidation and/or re-investment powers. You will need some professional assistance in making the factual determinations necessary to know whether any impropriety occurred. But realize that, even if your father was irresponsible or exceeded his powers with respect to the stocks, unless your father has assets to make good on the losses, there may be no meaningful remedy here.
Disclaimer: The materials provided below are informational and should not be relied upon as legal advice.
If your father was holding the stock only as a trustee for your and your siblings benefits, he should not use the proceeds for purposes other than those designated by the donor (your late grandfather). I suppose if he found out the stock may lose value, depending on the trust terms, he may be able to liquidate the stock and invest them in a safer investment, but only for the purposes designated by the donor. If you are certain your father has misappropriated the funds, you need to immediately consult your own attorney.
It is very important to know exactly how title to the stock was held to determine your rights. Can you talk to your father (or mother) about the stock? One of the difficulties you may encounter is your age. Once you turn 18 you may want to retain and discuss this issue with an experienced attorney. Prior to 18 you are going to need the assistance of a qualified adult.
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