O.J. Simpson’s estate has accepted a $57 million creditor claim from Fred Goldman, marking a pivotal moment in the resolution of the wrongful death lawsuit that has spanned nearly three decades. This move brings the Goldman family closer to receiving compensation after years of legal endeavors.
Estate executor Malcolm LaVergne filed court documents this week formally acknowledging the claim for $57,997,858.12, plus judgment interest. The acceptance follows Goldman’s initial request for over $117 million, with LaVergne contending that the interest was miscalculated, leading to a negotiated settlement that both parties have agreed upon.
LaVergne explained that the estate intends to pay out the approved amount as assets are liquidated, primarily through auctions of Simpson’s personal items. He revealed that some properties have been stolen and is actively working with legal teams to recover them, which could impact the timeline and total amount available for distribution.
In an unexpected development, LaVergne plans to seek court approval to award Goldman a fee for administrative costs incurred from advising on estate management. This cooperative gesture contrasts with his initial statement after Simpson’s death in 2024, where he vowed not to pay the Goldmans, a position he later retracted.
The estate has prioritized certain creditor claims, accepting only those from Goldman and the IRS, while declining others. LaVergne emphasized that tax obligations to the federal government take precedence, and claims like the approximately $636,945 from the State of California would require legal action to enforce.
The legal history traces back to 1995, when Simpson was acquitted in the criminal trial for the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman. However, a 1997 civil trial found him liable for Ron’s death, awarding the Goldman family over $33 million in damages, of which very little was paid during Simpson’s lifetime.
Simpson’s death in 2024 provided a new avenue for creditors to pursue claims against his estate. LaVergne’s acceptance of Goldman’s claim represents a significant shift and could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling civil judgments posthumously.
As the estate moves forward with asset sales and legal recoveries, the Goldman family may finally see a substantial portion of the judgment fulfilled. This development not only addresses a long-standing debt but also brings a measure of closure to one of the most publicized legal episodes in American history.
