Bill > B26-0316

This bill amends the probate administration process in the District of Columbia on a temporary basis by making several key changes to how estates are handled. It modifies the definition of abbreviated probate, which is a simplified legal process for settling a deceased person's estate, and provides new guidelines for the Register of Wills (a court official responsible for managing wills and estate matters). The bill allows the Register of Wills to refer proceedings to the Court if additional verification is needed about appointing personal representatives or admitting a will to probate. It removes language related to transfers by affidavit and clarifies the process for admitting wills to probate by allowing admission based on either the will's apparent proper execution or a verified statement from someone with knowledge of the will's execution. Additionally, the bill specifies that the Strengthening Probate Administration Amendment Act of 2024 will apply only to estates of individuals who died on or after March 21, 2025. The act is temporary, set to expire 225 days after taking effect, and will require approval by the Mayor and congressional review.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0316