“A missing county ledger entry and an unfiled birth affidavit locked in a private safe aren’t estate affairs,” Judge Vance said flatly.

“They’re evidence of systematic identity fraud.”

Judge Vance picked up his heavy fountain pen and drew a wide diagonal red line across Gene’s probate petition.

“The court finds that the 1990 death notice for Claire Rowan was entirely fraudulent and is legally void,” Judge Vance announced.

Gene sank back in his chair, his mouth hanging slightly open, his jaw frozen.

“The probate petition filed by Gene Miller is denied and dismissed with prejudice,” Judge Vance said.