An Estate Dispute Horror Story: The Rise of the Evil Stepmother (or stepchildren)
By: Allison Emborski
Picture this: dad remarries, children meet stepmom, and things are seemingly fine. The children think their father’s estate was straightforward—until the surviving spouse, their stepmother, takes control. Suddenly, the will has changed. Assets are missing. Communication vanishes like a ghost.
She is the executor.
She is in charge.
And she isn’t answering questions.
In the estate realm, this isn’t just a scary story—it’s a nightmare that happens all too often. The character of the evil stepmother is a tale as old as time. This fairytale dynamic can sometimes spill over into real-life legal battles over estates, where stepchildren may feel disadvantaged or unfairly treated by the stepparent left standing. The breakdown of these relationships can even rise to the surface before dad is gone.
However, stepmom isn’t always evil–often she’s dedicated to her spouse and simply misunderstood by her stepchildren.
Estate disputes involving stepparents and stepchildren in Virginia require a balanced approach that considers both the legal framework and the unique family dynamic. By understanding Virginia’s laws, seeking professional legal guidance early on, and fostering constructive communication, families can navigate these sensitive matters with greater clarity and respect, and hopefully prevent a nightmare from ever formulating.
Whether you are the child in this situation hoping to keep Grimhilda accountable, or you are a stepparent in a situation where your stepchildren are questioning every action about your late spouse’s estate, Hook Law’s litigation team is here to help guide you through this challenging time.
Allison Emborski
757-399-7506 | 252-722-2890
aemborski@hooklaw.net
Allison Emborski rejoined Hook Law in 2025 to lead and expand the firm’s fiduciary litigation practice. She brings with her a strong foundation in estate and trust litigation, along with a strategic and compassionate approach to matters involving contested wills, trusts, and other estate planning documents, as well as guardianship and conservatorship proceedings and claims of breach of fiduciary duty. Allison represents clients on all sides of these matters, guiding them through emotionally charged and sensitive situations with clarity, comfort, and confidence.
Allison began her legal career at Hook Law and later practiced at an AmLaw 100 firm, where she expanded her litigation experience to include business and contract disputes, construction, employment, personal injury, and real estate law, including representing community associations. This diverse background sharpened her ability to manage complex legal issues and advocate effectively in both trial and settlement contexts.
Known for her meticulous attention to detail and sound judgment, Allison excels at translating complex legal concepts into clear, actionable guidance for clients. Allison is committed to delivering exceptional outcomes for her clients with her keen insight of how to navigate these sensitive interpersonal dynamics, demonstrating skills that are vital in fiduciary litigation.
While in law school, Allison earned the Ronald L. Fick “Book Award” for distinction in her State Civil Pretrial Practice and Procedure course, concentrating on Virginia procedure. This early recognition reflects her strong grasp of Virginia’s legal framework and her dedication to excellence from the outset of her career. Allison has since been recognized as a leader in fiduciary litigation, being named “Top Lawyer” in Trusts and Estates by Coastal Virginia Magazine in both 2024 and 2025. Additionally, Allison joined Super Lawyers’ “Rising Stars” list for Estate and Trust Litigation—an award received by only 2.5% of those attorneys nominated in their respective practice areas.
Allison practices in all the state courts within the Commonwealth of Virginia. She is also admitted to practice in the U.S. District Courts for Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia, as well as the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. When not advocating for her clients, Allison enjoys spending time with her family and recharging outdoors.
