Seeking Advice: Ex-Mother-in-Law Demanding Half of Apartment Sale Proceeds

Dear Society Members,

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Gabriella, and I am currently facing a rather delicate situation that I hope you can provide some guidance on.

Recently, I got engaged to a wonderful person named Vincent, and we are planning our wedding. However, upon hearing the news, my ex-mother-in-law, Hazel, has put forth a surprising and quite unsettling demand. She insists that she is entitled to half of the proceeds from the sale of an apartment that was previously co-owned by myself and her son, Michael, my ex-husband.

The apartment was sold after our divorce, and the proceeds were divided according to our legal agreement. Hazel was never legally part of this agreement nor had she contributed financially to the purchase or upkeep of the apartment. Her sudden claim has not only caused stress but also confusion, as her demand seems to have no legal basis.

I am at a loss about how to proceed. Ignoring her demands does not feel right, given the years we spent as family, yet acquiescing seems unjust and without legal merit. I am seeking your advice on how to handle this situation in a way that maintains peace without compromising my rights and fairness.

Thank you for taking the time to read about my predicament. Any advice or similar experiences shared would be greatly appreciated.

Warm regards,

Gabriella