Kellie Pickler Blocks In-Laws’ Subpoena Amid Estate Dispute

Kellie Pickler has successfully blocked a subpoena issued by her in-laws, Reed and Sharon Jacobs, as a contentious legal battle over her late husband Kyle Jacobs’ estate intensifies. Kyle Jacobs, a well-known country songwriter, died by suicide in February 2023 at the age of 49. Pickler and Jacobs were married for nearly 12 years, and since his passing, tensions have escalated between Pickler and her late husband’s parents regarding the division of his personal property.

The dispute centers on a “List of Assets” prepared by Reed and Sharon Jacobs, which details items they believe belong to Kyle. Following his death, Pickler opted not to serve as the administrator of his estate and subsequently filed a petition challenging her in-laws’ claims. The legal conflict took a significant turn when a Tennessee judge ruled in favor of Pickler, declaring the subpoena “unusual on its face,” according to court documents obtained by Us Weekly.

Subpoena Details and Court Ruling

The judge’s order highlighted that the items sought by Reed and Sharon Jacobs were not easily transferrable documents but included numerous and, in some cases, large items of tangible personal property. The court expressed concerns regarding the potential legal implications of moving certain firearms that were included in the subpoena.

The ruling noted that Reed and Sharon Jacobs had not filed any formal complaint or petition against Pickler, which ultimately led to the determination that they lacked the authority to issue the subpoena in the first place. However, the judge indicated that they might still pursue action in a separate case stemming from Pickler’s petition.

The ongoing legal battle began when it was revealed that Pickler accused Reed and Sharon of removing personal belongings from her home shortly after Kyle’s death without providing a detailed account of what was taken. In her petition, she has sought to compel them to identify the items they removed.

Contentious Points and Prenuptial Agreement

Among the belongings cited by Reed and Sharon are a collection of firearms, jewelry, watches, a baseball card collection, musical instruments, and electronic devices including Kyle’s work laptop and iPhone. Pickler’s attorney argued that some items are either not in her possession or have disputed ownership, complicating the issue further.

Reed and Sharon Jacobs maintain that their visit to Pickler’s home was consensual and conducted under the guidance of her legal counsel. They argue that the items they sought had already been set aside for them, making an itemized list unnecessary.

The couple has also called for the dismissal of Pickler’s petition, referencing a prenuptial agreement that outlines the division of property. This agreement has emerged as a focal point of the dispute, adding further complexity to an already fraught situation.

In a related development, Pickler was granted a protective order that prevents the public release of her deposition transcript or video testimony. Her legal team argued that such a release would cause undue embarrassment and burden. In contrast, the Jacobses challenged the ruling, claiming the court did not adequately justify its decision, particularly regarding concerns of embarrassment.

Pickler’s financial dealings have also come under scrutiny. In June 2024, she sold the home she shared with Jacobs for $2.3 million, after initially listing the property for nearly $3 million. The Tudor-style residence, where Jacobs passed away, had been acquired by Pickler in 2010 for $1.43 million.

In August 2023, shortly after Jacobs’ death, Pickler spoke publicly about her loss, sharing insights from her late husband. She expressed gratitude for the support she received from family, friends, and fans, stating, “Thank you to my family, friends, and supporters, for the countless letters, calls, and messages that you have sent my way. It has truly touched my soul and it’s helping me get through the darkest time in my life.”

As the legal proceedings continue, the emotional toll on Pickler and the complexities of the estate dispute remain at the forefront of public interest. The outcome of this case will likely have lasting implications for both the Jacobs family and Pickler as they navigate the difficult waters of grief and inheritance.