This bill amends various sections of the Iowa probate and trust codes, addressing time limitations on actions, attorney fees, and notice requirements, among other matters. A significant change includes the establishment of a two-year limitation period for actions related to nontestamentary transfers that are procured through wrongful conduct, which applies to decedents dying on or after July 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill allows courts to award costs and attorney fees in disputed judicial proceedings involving the administration of a decedent's estate, also applicable to actions involving decedents dying on or after the specified date.

The bill also revises the handling of damages for wrongful death, stipulating that such damages are to be treated as personal property of the deceased's estate, with the court determining the distribution between the estate and those suffering loss of services and support. Furthermore, it extends the deadline for filing a probate report and inventory from 90 days to 120 days. Lastly, it clarifies that actions to contest trusts will be tried in probate as law actions, while other matters under the trust code will be treated as equity proceedings, with specific notice requirements established for these actions. The provisions related to trust code actions take effect immediately upon enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 614.1, 633.336, 633.425