HB1208: Various probate and trust matters.

Legislative Summary

Various probate and trust matters. In one instance in the law on health care advance directives, changes the word "testator" to "declarant". Amends several provisions relating to the filing of notices to make those provisions consistent with Rules of Trial Procedure 86 and 87 concerning electronic filing. Resolves inconsistencies in two sections of the chapter on dispensing with administration so that those sections authorize a fiduciary to distribute and disburse the estate assets before filing a closing statement. Authorizes the appointment of a special administrator under certain circumstances and establishes a procedure for the appointment of a special administrator for the purpose of pursuing a claim for a decedent's wrongful death. In a section concerning the filing of an electronic will, replaces an incorrect reference with a reference to the Rules on Access to Court Records. Provides that a video or audio recording of a principal who executes a power of attorney may be admissible as evidence of matters relevant to the validity or enforceability of the power of attorney. Provides that any objection to a final account and petition for distribution of a decedent's estate must be filed at least 14 days before the hearing date. Eliminates references to a trustee "docketing" a trust and identifies permissible methods for the filing of a copy of a trust instrument with a court. Amends two definitions of "electronic power of attorney" to provide that an electronic power of attorney may be signed in the presence of witnesses instead of being notarized. Provides that a person who has been found guilty, or guilty but mentally ill, on a charge of causing an unlawful death of a decedent is a constructive trustee of certain property acquired or entitled to be received by the culpable person. Includes a married individual who does not have any dependents and whose death was caused by a spouse within the definition of "adult person" for the purpose of a wrongful death action. Makes conforming changes. Makes technical corrections. (The introduced version of this bill was prepared by the probate code study commission.)