James Brown, the Godfather of Soul, died Christmas Day 2006 from congestive heart failure resulting from complications of pneumonia. Problems with Brown’s estate came to the surface when it was clear that his wife at the time of his death, Tomi Rae Hynie, and the child from that relationship, were not included in his will that was executed in 2000. Also in 2000, Brown created the “I Feel Good Irrevocable Trust” which included the bulk of his musical copyright assets and real estate assets. The beneficiary of the trust is a charitable organization.

To add to the exciting mix, Brown was separated from Hynie at the time of his death and there are legal questions as to the validity of their actual marriage. Under South Carolina law, Hynie and the child from that relationship are entitled to an inheritance so long as they were not specifically disinherited in the will.

The family members reached a Settlement Agreement in 2007, which the court rejected. On April 6, 2009, the judge wrapped up hearings on the matter and a ruling on the division of the estate is anticipated.