Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB05941

Introduced
1/28/21  

Caption

An Act Concerning Fee Waivers In A Probate Court Matter Involving A Decedent's Estate.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5941 would establish a formalized process where indigent individuals could petition for a waiver of fees typically required for probating an estate. Additionally, the bill includes provisions allowing individuals to request a hearing on any fee waiver requests that are denied by the Probate Court. This could significantly enhance the fairness and accessibility of the probate system for economically disadvantaged individuals, thereby ensuring that all citizens have a right to seek legal recourse without being hampered by financial constraints.

Summary

House Bill 5941 aims to enhance accessibility to the Probate Court system for indigent individuals involved in matters concerning a decedent's estate. The bill proposes amendments to sections 45a-107 and 45a-111 of the general statutes, facilitating a fee waiver petition process for those who cannot afford to pay probate-related fees. This initiative is designed to alleviate financial barriers that may prevent low-income individuals from engaging in the legal processes associated with estate management.

Contention

While the bill appears to be a positive step towards inclusivity within the legal system, potential points of contention could arise around the implementation of these fee waivers. Concerns may manifest regarding the criteria used to determine 'indigence,' and whether the process might inadvertently lead to an increase in administrative burdens on the Probate Court. Additionally, discussions may emerge about how the bill balances the need for accessible legal processes while maintaining the integrity and efficiency of estate management.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT SB00324

An Act Concerning Probate Court Operations And Administration.

CT SB00272

An Act Concerning Adoption Of The Connecticut Uniform Trust Decanting Act.

CT SB00426

An Act Concerning Court Operations And Administrative Proceedings.

CT SB00138

An Act Concerning The Waiver Of Certain Criminal History Records Check Fees For An Indigent Person Seeking A Pardon.

CT HB05364

An Act Preserving Assets Of State Humane Institution Residents.

CT SB00393

An Act Implementing The Treasurer's Recommendations Concerning Unclaimed Property.

CT SB00445

An Act Concerning A Jobs Program For Youth Impacted By The Juvenile Justice System, Review Of Probation Violations And State-wide Expansion Of Truancy Clinics.

CT SB00251

An Act Concerning The Legislative Commissioners' Recommendations For Technical And Other Revisions To The Tax And Related Statutes.

CT HB05145

An Act Concerning Innovation Banks.

CT SB00360

An Act Concerning The Transcript Fees Charged By Official Court Reporters And Court Reporting Monitors.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.