The bill seeks to reform the probate process in Washington State by instituting stricter regulations aimed at curbing profit-driven practices in estate administration. Key amendments include the requirement for applicants seeking letters of administration to provide detailed information about the deceased's heirs and major probate assets, along with a reasonable search to identify such assets. Personal representatives appointed under specific conditions are prohibited from purchasing or acquiring estate assets for personal gain without court approval, and their ability to file petitions is limited. Additionally, the bill introduces new qualifications for personal representatives, disqualifying those with recent legal or ethical violations, and mandates that non-entity personal representatives provide a bond based on the estate's major assets. Compensation for personal representatives is also restricted, ensuring they cannot receive outside payments without court permission.

Further amendments clarify the responsibilities and powers of personal representatives, requiring them to present a detailed petition to the court regarding the estate's property, debts, and obligations. The bill establishes new reporting requirements, including timely filings of reports confirming notice to third parties and detailing estate financial accounts. It sets a presumption that an estate is ready for closure 24 months after the personal representative's appointment unless stated otherwise. Additionally, the bill outlines the venue for probate matters and introduces regulations concerning the purchase of beneficiary interests in estates, including the definition of a transferee for value and conditions for valid agreements. The court is granted authority to investigate these agreements and impose penalties for violations, thereby enhancing accountability and protecting the interests of heirs and beneficiaries.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 11.28.110, 11.28.330, 11.28.185, 11.28.237, 11.36.010, 11.48.020, 11.48.210, 11.56.030, 11.68.011, 11.76.010, 11.76.030