Many families in Massachusetts have family heirlooms that hold a great deal of sentimental value. In many cases, these items can also hold a great deal of monetary value. Such appears to be the case regarding Kurt Cobain’s guitar. The instrument has reportedly become a point of contention between Kurt Cobain’s daughter, Frances Bean Cobain, and her estranged husband, Isaiah Silva, as they go through the divorce process.
Frances Bean Cobain and Silva reportedly married in a secret ceremony in 2014. In court filings, she claims she is seeking a divorce due to irreconcilable differences. While she reportedly claims that she is not opposed to paying Silva spousal support, she argues that he is not entitled to any of Kurt Cobain’s estate, rumored to be worth approximately $450 million.
At issue, however, is Kurt Cobain’s guitar which reports indicate was the last instrument he played before he committed suicide in 1994. Additionally, the guitar was only one of 300 that was manufactured before it was discontinued, and Kurt Cobain is said to have had it altered as he was left handed. Silva argues that Frances Bean Cobain gave him the guitar as a wedding present. Courtney Love, Frances Bean Cobain’s mother and Kurt Cobain’s widow, argues that the guitar is a family heirloom and would never have been given away. Some estimate that it is worth several million dollars.
Because there are no certainties in life, many people in Massachusetts who are preparing to marry often seek the advice of an experienced family law attorney. These professionals can help people understand the the potential ramifications if a marriage ends in divorce. Many couples ultimately choose to create a prenuptial agreement to help ensure that both people fully understand how property will be divided in the event of a divorce.