Jimmy Buffett’s widow has initiated legal action against the man appointed as co-trustee of the late musician’s $275 million (£203 million) trust.
Jane Buffett claims that accountant Richard Mozenter has delayed sharing important financial details with Buffett’s family, and that both he and the attorney he chose to represent the trustees have been “openly hostile” toward her.
Jane, who was married to Jimmy Buffett for 46 years, requested on Tuesday that the court remove Mozenter from his role as co-trustee of the estate. She alleges that both she and her attorney have repeatedly urged him to “act responsibly and perform his duties,” but he has failed to do so.
According to the legal filing, “Mr Mozenter has failed to perform even the most basic tasks required of him in his role as co-trustee, including providing Mrs Buffett with information concerning Trust assets and finances, which has left Mrs Buffett in the dark with regard to the state of her own finances.”
The document further states, “Along the way, Mr Mozenter has belittled, disrespected and condescended to Mrs Buffett in response to her reasonable requests for information she undoubtedly was entitled to receive.”
Jimmy Buffett amassed his wealth through both his music career and a wide range of business ventures.
Best known for the hit Margaritaville, Buffett turned the song into a global lifestyle brand that included restaurants, resorts, merchandise, and retirement communities.
He passed away in September 2023 at the age of 76, after being diagnosed with Merkel cell carcinoma.