Wisconsin Court Creates Financial Incentive for Assisted Suicide
The Americans United for Life Blog reports: “Today the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, District IV, ruled in Donna Limmer v. Linda Schunk that persons who assist in the suicide of another are still entitled to the inheritance of the deceased person. This dangerous decision encourages persons who have a financial interest in another’s death to assist that person in committing suicide.”
LifeNews.com carries this report: Wisconsin Pro-Life Group Worried Court Ruling Promotes Assisted Suicides.
Opinion: Limmer v. Schunk, No. 2007AP002680 (Wis. App. Sept. 25, 2008). Excerpts:
The issue on appeal in this probate action is the proper construction of WIS. STAT. § 854.14 (2003-04),1 which prevents a person who “unlawful[ly] and intentional[ly] kill[s]” another from benefiting under the decedent’s will and other instruments. We agree with the circuit court that “unlawful and intentional killing” within the meaning of this statute does not include assisting another to commit suicide. We therefore affirm . . .
The parties here agree that, for purposes of our review, we, like the circuit court, are to accept the view of the evidence advanced by the objectors— that Linda and Megan assisted Edward in committing suicide. The issue is whether, given these facts, WIS. STAT. § 854.14 bars Linda and Megan from inheriting under Edward’s will.
2 Comments
My, My. If ever a reason to make sure you have a firm, noncontestable
will, and to make sure you keep on eye on your family’s financial
status’ to see who migh need an influx of money.
What a slippery slope this is.If someone decides you are to old assist you in suicide.Just talk the old person thats maybe a little forgetful that its best for them to depart this old world.That they are worthless and in the way.How selfish and wicked.Other cultures revere their elderly for their wisdom.Oh but what about our financial inheritance,it will come in so handy from mom or dad or uncle,it will maybe by a bigger car or house,and not to forget we won’t have to be bothered to care for them.May God forgive our nation for our selfish and wicked deeds