Bill > B26-0315

This bill makes several key changes to probate administration in the District of Columbia. It modifies the definition and process of abbreviated probate, which is a simplified probate proceeding for determining a decedent's estate and appointing a personal representative. The bill allows the Register of Wills to refer proceedings to the Court to determine if personal representatives should be appointed and if a will should be admitted to probate. It also streamlines the will admission process by presuming due execution of a will if it appears to be properly executed or contains a verified statement from someone with knowledge of its execution. Additionally, the bill removes a previous reference to will admission in transfers by affidavit and clarifies that the Strengthening Probate Administration Amendment Act of 2024 will apply only to estates of decedents who died on or after March 21, 2025. The act is an emergency measure, meaning it will remain in effect for no more than 90 days, and is designed to quickly implement these probate administration improvements.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0315