Judge officially rules on heirs to Prince’s fortune

Minneapolis — More than a year after Prince’s death, a Carver County judge has officially determined that the musician’s sister and five half-siblings are heirs to his massive fortune.

In a ruling made public Friday, Judge Kevin Eide ordered that Prince’s sister, Tyka Nelson, and Omarr Baker, Alfred Jackson, Sharon Nelson, Norrine Nelson and John R. Nelson will divide an estate valued at $100 million to $300 million before taxes.

Prince left no will, but all six had been considered the likely heirs since his accidental overdose death last April at 57 years old.

A formal declaration of Prince’s heirs would give others a year to present credible claims that they also should be included. Eide has already ruled several ineligible. Some of them have objected to making a final heirship determination, noting that their appeals of his rulings are pending at the Minnesota Court of Appeals.

In his ruling, Eide said if the Court of Appeals or state Supreme Court decides there are other heirs, the district court would review the cases. No distribution of assets can happen without a formal order from Eide. No assets will be distributed that might adversely affect those who are challenging their right as heirs before the higher courts make any rulings, Eide said.

Hundreds of motions have been filed in connection to Prince’s estate. Attorneys representing the heirs said it’s the most complex probate case in Minnesota history.

Attorneys for the heirs and those challenging to become heirs couldn’t be reached for comment Friday.