Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.
Detailed Answer
When a decedent owns assets across several Connecticut probate districts or in other states, you must coordinate probate and possible ancillary administration. Connecticut’s probate courts follow Conn. Gen. Stat. §45a-105 for venue. Under that rule, you file the primary estate administration in the district where the decedent was domiciled at death or where they owned real property.
Step 1: Determine Primary Probate Venue
If the decedent lived in Stamford and owned a vacation home in Litchfield, you initiate probate in the Stamford District Probate Court. Conn. Gen. Stat. §45a-105(a) authorizes venue where the decedent last resided: Conn. Gen. Stat. §45a-105.
Step 2: Notify All Probate Districts Holding Property
After appointment of a personal representative (executor or administrator), you list all assets in other districts or states. For real estate or bank accounts in another Connecticut district, you typically transfer title by filing ancillary probate letters of appointment in the local court. The Probate Court issues a Certificate of Appointment to validate the representative’s authority under Conn. Gen. Stat. §45a-801: Conn. Gen. Stat. §45a-801.
Step 3: Ancillary Administration for Out-of-State Assets
If the decedent held property in New York or Massachusetts, you open ancillary probate there. That process requires presenting the Connecticut court’s Letters of Administration (or Letters Testamentary) with a certified copy. Local rules will govern publication, bonding, and creditor notice.
Step 4: Coordinate Filings and Notices
Maintain a master asset schedule. File inventory statements in each Connecticut probate district within four months of appointment per Conn. Gen. Stat. §45a-317. For ancillary states, follow their deadlines.
Step 5: Close the Estate
Once debts are paid and distributions made, petition each court for discharge. In Connecticut, submit final accounting and request discharge under Conn. Gen. Stat. §45a-352.
Helpful Hints
- Start in the decedent’s domicile district: simplifies the probate path.
- Use a centralized asset tracker: helps you avoid missed filings.
- Order multiple certified Letters of Administration: courts often require originals.
- Check bond requirements: ancillary courts may demand separate surety bonds.
- Notify creditors in each jurisdiction: observe notice timelines to limit liability.