More than a decade after the death of the singer-songwriter, Joan Sebastian’s succession is moving forward. A court in Hidalgo County, Texas, issued a resolution that accredits the legal heirs of his assets.
The performer, known as the People’s Poet, died on July 13, 2015 without leaving a clear will. This unleashed a long dispute between some relatives, with allegations regarding the administration of their assets.
Official recognition of heirs
José Manuel Figueroa, son of the artist, published a statement on Instagram. The document details that the recognized beneficiaries are José Manuel Figueroa González, Zarelea Figueroa Ocampo, the succession of Julián Figueroa Fernández, Joana Marcelia Figueroa Espín, Juliana Joeri Figueroa Alonso, D’Yave Figueroa Espín, Alina Espín Villalobos, Alejandro Jesús Chaidez-Figueroa (son of Trigo de Jesús Figueroa González) and the descendants by Juan Sebastián Figueroa González.
The resolution also informs the removal of the previous executor and the appointment of a new administrator to manage the estate.
The legal dispute continues in Mexico
Although the Texan court recognized Julián Figueroa’s estate as beneficiary, the rights that corresponded to him became part of the inheritance of Julián himself, son of Maribel Guardia. That process is still in Mexican courts.
Imelda Garza Tuñón, widow of Julián Figueroa, challenged her husband’s will. She alleged that the signature did not match and that there were inconsistencies about where the document was executed. Therefore, the Mexican authorities must first resolve who will inherit that portion.
In this sense, the hereditary rights of said portion are safe and will be determined according to the result of the succession procedure of Julián Figueroa in Mexico.
The statement proposes two scenarios: that Julián’s youngest son is recognized as universal heir, or that both the minor and Imelda are considered according to what the judges determine.
Music properties and rights
The inheritance includes at least 51 properties in Guerrero, Jalisco, Veracruz and Morelos, in addition to the rights derived from his musical work. The total value has never been officially revealed.
The litigation has required legal teams in Mexico and the United States. The death of Julián Figueroa in April 2023 also temporarily suspended the procedure. Now, with the resolution in Texas, the case takes a new step, but the dispute in Mexico continues.
