525.01 [Renumbered 487.01]

525.0105 [Repealed, 1971 c 951 s 44]

525.011 [Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.012    Subdivision 1.[Repealed, 1989 c 335 art 3 s 57 subd 2; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 2.[Repealed, 1989 c 335 art 3 s 57 subd 2; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 3.[Repealed, 1989 c 335 art 3 s 57 subd 2; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 4.[Repealed, 1989 c 335 art 3 s 57 subd 2; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 5.[Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.013    Subdivision 1.[Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 2.[Repealed, 1977 c 201 s 2]
    Subd. 2a.[Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 3.[Repealed, 1977 c 201 s 2]
    Subd. 4.[Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 5.[Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 6.[Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 7.[Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 8.[Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.014 [Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.015 [Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.02 [Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.03 [Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.031 FEES FOR COPIES.
The fees for copies of all documents shall be the same as the fee established for such copies
on civil proceedings under section 357.021, subdivision 2.
History: (8992-4) 1935 c 72 s 4; 1967 c 128 s 1; 1986 c 442 s 13

525.033 FEES FOR FILING PETITIONS.
The district court shall collect a fee as established by section 357.021, subdivision 2, clause
(1), for filing a petition to commence a proceeding under this chapter and chapter 524. The fee
for copies of all documents in probate proceedings must be the same as the fee established for
certified copies in civil proceedings under section 357.021, subdivision 2. Fees collected under
this section and section 525.031 must be forwarded to the commissioner of finance for deposit in
the state treasury and credited to the general fund.
History: 1978 c 730 s 3; 1986 c 442 s 14; 1987 c 11 s 1; 1989 c 335 art 3 s 35; 1995 c
189 s 8; 1996 c 277 s 1; 2003 c 112 art 2 s 50

525.04 [Repealed, 1Sp1981 c 4 art 3 s 8]

525.041 WRITTEN DECISION SHALL BE FILED WITHIN 90 DAYS; MANDATORY.
The decision of every issue of law or fact shall be in writing and shall be filed within 90
days after submission unless prevented by illness or casualty.
Upon the filing of any appealable order, judgment, or decree, except in uncontested matters
or where the final decision was announced at the hearing, the court shall give notice by mail of
such filing to each party, or the attorney, who appeared of record at the hearing.
History: (8992-6) 1935 c 72 s 6; 1967 c 317 s 1; 1986 c 444

525.05 JUDGE OR REFEREE; GROUNDS FOR DISQUALIFICATION.
    The following shall be grounds for disqualification of any judge or referee from acting in any
matter: (1) That the judge or the judge's spouse or any of either of their kin nearer than first cousin
is interested as representative, heir, devisee, legatee, ward, or creditor in the estate involved
therein; (2) that it involves the validity or interpretation of a will drawn or witnessed by the judge;
(3) that the judge may be a necessary witness in the matter; (4) that it involves a property right in
respect to which the judge has been engaged or is engaged as an attorney; or (5) that the judge
was engaged in a joint enterprise for profit with the decedent at the time of death or that the
judge is then engaged in a joint enterprise for profit with any person interested in the matter as
representative, heir, devisee, legatee, ward, or creditor. When grounds for disqualification exist,
the judge may, and upon proper petition of any person interested in the estate must, request
another judge or a judge who has retired to act in the judge's stead in the matter.
History: (8992-7) 1935 c 72 s 7; 1961 c 6 s 1; 1981 c 31 s 12; 1986 c 444; 1995 c 189
s 8; 1996 c 277 s 1; 2006 c 271 art 11 s 47

525.051 [Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.052 [Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.053 [Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.06 [Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.07 [Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.08 [Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.081    Subdivision 1.[Repealed, 1977 c 432 s 49; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 2.[Repealed, 1977 c 432 s 49; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 3.[Repealed, 1977 c 432 s 49; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 4.[Repealed, 1977 c 432 s 49; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 5.[Repealed, 1977 c 432 s 49; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 6.[Repealed, 1977 c 432 s 49; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 7.[Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 8.[Repealed, 1977 c 432 s 49; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]
    Subd. 9.[Repealed, 1977 c 432 s 49; 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.082 [Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.09 [Repealed, 2006 c 260 art 5 s 54]

525.091 DESTRUCTION AND REPRODUCTION OF PROBATE RECORDS.
    Subdivision 1. Original documents. The court administrator of any county upon order
of the judge exercising probate jurisdiction may destroy all the original documents in any
probate proceeding of record in the office five years after the file in such proceeding has been
closed provided the original or a Minnesota state archives commission approved photographic,
photostatic, microphotographic, microfilmed, or similarly reproduced copy of the original of the
following enumerated documents in the proceeding are on file in the office.
Enumerated original documents:
(a) In estates, the jurisdictional petition and proof of publication of the notice of hearing
thereof; will and certificate of probate; letters; inventory and appraisal; orders directing and
confirming sale, mortgage, lease, or for conveyance of real estate; order setting apart statutory
selection; receipts for federal estate taxes and state estate taxes; orders of distribution and
general protection; decrees of distribution; federal estate tax closing letter, consent to discharge
by commissioner of revenue and order discharging representative; and any amendment of the
listed documents.
When an estate is deemed closed as provided in clause (d) of this subdivision, the enumerated
documents shall include all claims of creditors.
(b) In guardianships or conservatorships, the jurisdictional petition and order for hearing
thereof with proof of service; letters; orders directing and confirming sale, mortgage, lease or
for conveyance of real estate; order for restoration to capacity and order discharging guardian;
and any amendment of the listed documents.
(c) In mental, inebriety, and indigent matters, the jurisdictional petition; report of
examination; warrant of commitment; notice of discharge from institution, or notice of death and
order for restoration to capacity; and any amendment of the listed documents.
(d) Except for the enumerated documents described in this subdivision, the court
administrator may destroy all other original documents in any probate proceeding without
retaining any reproduction of the document. For the purpose of this subdivision, a proceeding is
deemed closed if no document has been filed in the proceeding for a period of 15 years, except in
the cases of wills filed for safekeeping and those containing wills of decedents not adjudicated
upon.
    Subd. 2. Record books. The court administrator of any county upon order of the judge may
destroy the original record books as enumerated in this subdivision provided a Minnesota state
archives commission approved photographic, photostatic, microphotographic, microfilmed, or
similarly reproduced copy of the original record book is on file in the office.
Enumerated original record books:
All record books kept for recording in compliance with section 525.03, clauses (3), (4),
(5) and (6).
    Subd. 3. Effect of copies. A photographic, photostatic, microphotographic, microfilmed,
or similarly reproduced record is of the same force and effect as the original and may be used
as the original document or book of record in all proceedings.
    Subd. 4. Exception. This section does not apply to the court of any county until the county
board of the county adopts a resolution authorizing the destruction of probate records pursuant to
the provisions of this section. When the county board has complied with this subdivision, section
525.092 and any act amendatory thereof shall no longer apply to the probate court of that county.
History: 1965 c 883 s 1; 1971 c 484 s 1; 1973 c 582 s 3; 1975 c 347 s 85-87; 1979 c 303 art
3 s 35,36; 1986 c 444; 1Sp1986 c 3 art 1 s 82; 1995 c 189 s 8; 1996 c 277 s 1

525.092 COURT ADMINISTRATOR MAY DESTROY CERTAIN PAPERS.
    Subdivision 1. Certain vouchers and receipts. The court administrator of the district
court is hereby authorized to destroy all vouchers or receipts filed in estates and guardianship
proceedings of record in the office after such estates or guardianships have been closed for a
period of 25 years, or more, except receipts for any federal or state taxes.
    Subd. 2. Certain guardianships excepted. The provisions of this section shall not apply
to guardianships of incompetent or insane persons, nor to guardianships of minors until one
year after the minor has become 18 years old.
History: 1947 c 117 s 1,2; 1949 c 409 s 1; 1951 c 21 s 1; 1973 c 725 s 75; 1986 c 444;
1Sp1986 c 3 art 1 s 82; 1995 c 189 s 8; 1996 c 277 s 1

525.094 [Repealed, 1965 c 883 s 2]

525.095 COURT ADMINISTRATOR MAY ISSUE ORDERS UNDER DIRECTION OF
THE COURT.
The judge may authorize the court administrator or any deputy court administrator to
issue orders for hearing petitions for general administration, for the probate of any will, for
determination of descent, for sale, lease, mortgage, or conveyance of real estate, for the settlement
and allowance of any account, for partial or final distribution, for commitment, orders limiting the
time to file claims and fixing the time and place for the hearing thereon, and to issue notice of the
entry of any order. The issuance of any such order or notice by the court administrator or deputy
court administrator shall be prima facie evidence of authority to issue it.
History: (8992-15) 1935 c 72 s 15; 1937 c 435 s 5; 1986 c 444; 1Sp1986 c 3 art 1 s 82

525.10 REFEREE; APPOINTMENT; BOND; OFFICE ABOLISHED.
    Subdivision 1. Office abolished. The office of referee is abolished. No vacancy in the office
of referee shall be filled, nor new office created.
    Subd. 2. Incumbents. Persons holding the office of referee on June 30, 1980, in the Second
and August 15, 1980, in the Fourth Judicial District may continue to serve at the pleasure of the
chief judge of the district under the terms and conditions of their appointment. All referees are
subject to the administrative authority and assignment power of the chief judge of the district as
provided in section 484.69, subdivision 3, and are not limited to assignment to probate court. All
referees are subject to the provisions of section 484.70. Part time referees holding office in the
Second Judicial District pursuant to this subdivision shall cease to hold office on July 31, 1984.
    Subd. 3. Referees. Each referee in probate court shall be an attorney at law duly admitted in
this state. The appointment shall be in writing and filed in the court. The referee has the power to
take acknowledgments and administer oaths.
History: (8992-16) 1935 c 72 s 16; 1937 c 435 s 6; 1957 c 212 s 1; 1973 c 524 s 14; 1974 c
165 s 1; 1974 c 387 s 1; 1976 c 181 s 2; 1981 c 272 s 6

525.101 COMPENSATION OF REFEREE.
Such referee shall receive from the county as compensation $3,600 per annum in counties
having more than 500,000 inhabitants, payable from the general funds of the county not otherwise
appropriated, at the same time and in the same manner and subject to the provisions of law
applicable to the compensation of the judge. The county shall furnish a suitable office in the
courthouse or in some other suitable place or places designated by the judge. The judge may
assign to the referee from the court's clerks and employees such clerical help as may be necessary
to properly discharge the duties.
History: (8992-17) 1935 c 72 s 17; 1957 c 212 s 2; 1971 c 471 s 1; 1986 c 444

525.102 REFERENCE.
After such appointment the judge by order may refer to the referee any matter, cause, or
proceeding pending in such court. In all matters so referred the referee shall find the facts and
report the findings to the judge. In all matters referred and reported the referee may append the
referee's signature to the order or decree of the court; and whenever this signature shall be so
appended, it shall constitute conclusive evidence that the matter was referred, heard, and reported
in the manner required by law and the order of the court therein, provided that the failure of the
referee to append the referee's signature to any such order or decree shall not affect its validity.
History: (8992-18) 1935 c 72 s 18; 1986 c 444

525.103 DELIVERY OF BOOKS AND RECORDS.
When the term of office of such referee expires or is terminated, the referee shall deliver
to the successor or to the judge all books and papers in the referee's possession relating to the
office. Upon failure to do so within five days after demand by the successor or the judge, the
referee shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
History: (8992-19) 1935 c 72 s 19; 1986 c 444

525.11 REPORTER; APPOINTMENT AND DUTIES.
The judge may appoint a competent stenographer as reporter and secretary in all matters
pertaining to official duties to hold office during the judge's pleasure. Such reporter shall make a
complete record of all testimony given and all proceedings had before the court upon the trial
of issue of fact except that in commitment proceedings a tape recording of the proceedings may
be kept in lieu of a stenographic record. The reporter shall inscribe all questions in the exact
language thereof, all answers thereto precisely as given by the witness or sworn interpreter, all
objections made and the grounds thereof as stated by counsel, all rulings thereon, all exceptions
taken, all admissions made, all oral stipulations, and all oral motions and orders. When directed
by the judge, the reporter shall make a record of any matter or proceeding and without charge
shall read to or transcribe for such judge any record made or any tape recording made in a
commitment proceeding. Upon completion of every trial or proceeding, such reporter shall file the
stenographic record or tape recording in the manner directed by the judge. Upon request of any
person and payment of fees by such person, the reporter shall furnish a transcript. The reporter
may take acknowledgments, administer oaths, and certify copies of the stenographic record or
transcript of either such record or tape recording made in a commitment proceeding.
History: (8992-20) 1935 c 72 s 20; 1974 c 482 s 8; 1986 c 444

525.111 COMPENSATION; TRANSCRIPT FEES.
Where the salary of the reporter is not provided for by law, compensation shall be paid by
the representative as an expense of administration or guardianship, or by the party or parties
presenting or contesting the proceedings reported, as the court may determine. In addition to the
salary fixed by law or compensation fixed by the court, the reporter shall receive for transcripts
furnished such fees as may be fixed by the court not exceeding those allowed by law to the district
court reporters of the same county.
History: (8992-21) 1935 c 72 s 21; 1986 c 444

525.112 COURT REPORTERS FOR HENNEPIN COUNTY COURT.
The county judge or judge of probate of any county now having or which may hereafter
have 400,000 inhabitants, or over, may appoint a competent stenographer as court reporter and
secretary, who shall be paid a salary of $3,000 per annum; and, in addition to this salary, the
court reporter may also be paid such fees for transcripts of evidence made in relation to probate
hearings, as the judge of probate shall fix and allow, and appoint two additional clerks who shall
be competent stenographers, who shall each be paid a salary of $1,200 per annum.
History: (8992-21a) 1935 c 373 s 1; 1941 c 179 s 1; 1975 c 347 s 88

525.113 ADDITIONAL EMPLOYEES.
The reporter and clerk mentioned in section 525.112 shall be employed and appointed in
addition to the court administrator, deputy court administrators, and employees now provided
by law, to hold office during the pleasure of the judge of probate and shall perform the duties
imposed by law and such judge, and their salary shall be paid from the county funds in the same
manner as prescribed for the payment of other employees of such court.
History: (8992-21b) 1935 c 373 s 2; 1Sp1986 c 3 art 1 s 82

525.12 AUDITOR; APPOINTMENT.
The court may appoint an auditor in any matter involving an annual, partial, or final account,
or the amount due on a claim or an offset thereto. Such appointment may be made with or without
notice and on the court's own motion or upon the petition of the personal representative or of any
person interested in the estate or guardianship.
History: (8992-22) 1935 c 72 s 22; 1975 c 347 s 89

525.121 POWERS.
The auditor shall have the same power as the court to set hearings, grant adjournments,
compel the attendance of witnesses or the production of books, papers, and documents, and to hear
all proper evidence relating to such matter. The auditor shall report findings of fact to the court.
History: (8992-23) 1935 c 72 s 23; 1986 c 444

525.122 COMPENSATION OF AUDITOR.
The auditor shall be allowed such reasonable fees, disbursements, and expenses as may
be determined by the court and shall be paid by the personal representative as expenses of
administration, guardianship or conservatorship or by the person applying for such audit as
the court may determine.
History: (8992-24) 1935 c 72 s 24; 1975 c 347 s 90

525.13 ESTATE.
As used in sections 525.13 to 525.161, the word "estate" includes every right and interest of
a decedent in property, real or personal, except such as are terminated or otherwise extinguished
by the death.
History: (8992-25) 1935 c 72 s 25; 1985 c 250 s 24; 1986 c 444

525.14 DESCENT OF CEMETERY LOT.
Subject to the right of interment of the decedent therein, a cemetery lot or burial plot, unless
disposed of as provided in section 306.29, shall descend free of all debts as follows:
(1) To the decedent's surviving spouse, a life estate with right of interment of the spouse
therein, and remainder over to the person who would be entitled to the fee if there were no spouse,
provided, however, if no person entitled to the remainder of the fee survives, then the entire fee to
the surviving spouse with right of interment therein;
(2) If there is no surviving spouse, then to the decedent's eldest surviving child;
(3) If there is no surviving child, then to the decedent's youngest surviving sibling;
(4) If there is no surviving spouse, child or sibling of the decedent, then, if not sold during
administration of decedent's estate, to the cemetery association or private cemetery in trust as
a burial lot for the decedent and such of the decedent's relatives as the governing body thereof
shall deem proper.
The cemetery association or private cemetery, or, with its consent, any person to whom
the lot shall descend may grant and convey the lot to any of the decedent's parents, siblings
or descendants.
A crypt or group of crypts or burial vaults owned by one person in a public or community
mausoleum shall be deemed a cemetery lot.
Grave markers, monuments, memorials and all structures lawfully installed or erected on any
cemetery lot or burial plot shall be deemed to be a part of and shall descend with the lot or plot.
History: (8992-26) 1935 c 72 s 26; 1969 c 852 s 1; 1981 c 25 s 1

525.145 [Repealed, 1995 c 130 s 21]

525.15 [Repealed, 1994 c 472 s 64]

525.151 [Repealed, 1994 c 472 s 64]

525.152 AWARD OF PROPERTY WITH SENTIMENTAL VALUE TO CHILDREN.
    Subdivision 1. Definitions. (a) "Eligible child" means a child of the decedent who:
(1) is not the child of the surviving spouse, if any;
(2) if there is no surviving spouse, is not a minor, and has a different parent than minor
children of the decedent; and
(3) if the decedent dies testate, is a devisee under the decedent's will.
(b) "Sentimental value" means significant emotional or nostalgic value arising out of the
relationship of an individual with the decedent or arising out of the relationship of the eligible
child with the individual who is the nondecedent parent of the eligible child.
    Subd. 2. Ineligible property. The following property is not eligible for an award under
this section:
(1) real property;
(2) personal property that is the subject of a specific devise under the decedent's will where
the will was executed before August 1, 1989, and where the devise specifically identifies the
particular item of property, unless the property is selected under section 524.2-403;
(3) personal property that is the subject of a specific devise under a separate writing under
section 524.2-513, unless the property is selected under section 524.2-403; and
(4) personal property disposed of by a premarital agreement.
    Subd. 3. Notice to eligible children; petition. At the time of an allowance selection under
section 524.2-403, the person making the selection shall serve personally or by mail a written
itemized notice of the property selected to every eligible child of the decedent. This requirement
does not apply if an award of property with sentimental value already has been made under this
section. Within 30 days of receipt of the notice of selection, an eligible child may petition the
court to award property with sentimental value contained in the notice, or other property with
sentimental value that belonged to the decedent, to the eligible child.
    Subd. 4. Court decision. The court shall award property with sentimental value to an eligible
child if it finds that the property's sentimental value to the child outweighs its sentimental value to
the person entitled to the allowance selection. If more than one eligible child petitions the court
for an award of the same property, the court shall award the property to the child for whom the
property has the greatest sentimental value. In awarding property with sentimental value to an
eligible child, the court shall give weight to the following factors:
(1) the relationship of the eligible child to the acquisition and use of the property;
(2) whether the property was acquired prior to the decedent's marriage to the surviving
spouse or prior to the birth of minor children who are entitled to an allowance selection; and
(3) whether the property belonged to the individual who is the nondecedent parent of the
eligible child.
    Subd. 5. Payment to estate. (a) As a condition of an award of sentimental property under
this section, the court shall order that the eligible child pay the value of the property to the estate
or that the value of the property be deducted from the eligible child's share of the estate. The
surviving spouse or minor children may make an additional allowance selection in place of
property with sentimental value awarded to an eligible child.
(b) If the court awards property under subdivision 4, the court shall appoint an appraiser
who shall determine the value of the property. The value of the property is its appraised value
as of the date of the decedent's death without reference to its sentimental value to the eligible
child or any other person.
History: 1988 c 417 s 3; 1989 c 219 s 2; 1997 c 7 art 1 s 166-168

525.16 [Repealed, 1985 c 250 s 27]

525.161 NO SURVIVING SPOUSE OR KINDRED, NOTICES TO ATTORNEY
GENERAL.
When it appears from the petition or application for administration of the estate, or
otherwise, in a proceeding in the court that the intestate left surviving no spouse or kindred, the
court shall give notice of such fact and notice of all subsequent proceedings in such estate to the
attorney general forthwith; and the attorney general shall protect the interests of the state during
the course of administration. The residue which escheats to the state shall be transmitted to the
attorney general. All moneys, stocks, bonds, notes, mortgages and other securities, and all other
personal property so escheated shall then be given into the custody of the commissioner of finance
who shall immediately credit the moneys received to the general fund. The commissioner of
finance shall hold such stocks, bonds, notes, mortgages and other securities, and all other personal
property, subject to such investment, sale or other disposition as the State Board of Investment
may direct pursuant to section 11A.04, clause (9). The attorney general shall immediately report
to the State Executive Council all real property received in the individual escheat, and any sale or
disposition of such real estate shall be made in accordance with sections 16B.281 to 16B.287.
History: 1955 c 194 s 1; 1957 c 861 s 1; 1969 c 399 s 1; 1973 c 492 s 14; 1975 c 347 s 93;
1980 c 607 art 14 s 46; 2003 c 112 art 2 s 48; 2004 c 262 art 1 s 39

525.17 [Repealed, 1985 c 250 s 27]

525.171 [Repealed, 1985 c 250 s 27]

525.172 [Repealed, 1985 c 250 s 27]

525.173 [Repealed, 1985 c 250 s 27]

525.18 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.181 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.182 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.183 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.184 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.19 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.191 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.20 [Repealed, 1985 c 250 s 27]

525.201 [Repealed, 1985 c 250 s 27]

525.202 [Repealed, 1985 c 250 s 27]

525.203 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.21 QUANTITY OF ESTATE DEVISED.
Every devise of real estate shall convey all the estate of the testator therein subject to liens
and encumbrances thereon unless a different intention appears from the will.
History: (8992-45) 1935 c 72 s 45

525.211 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.212 [Repealed, 1985 c 250 s 27]

525.213 [Repealed, 1985 c 250 s 27]

525.214 [Repealed, 1985 c 250 s 27]

525.215 [Repealed, 1985 c 250 s 27]

525.216 [Repealed, 1985 c 250 s 27]

525.22 [Repealed, 1994 c 472 s 64]

525.221 [Repealed, 1994 c 472 s 64]

525.222 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.2221 WILLS NOT AFFECTED.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the provisions of any will
executed prior to June 1, 1973 relating to ones "minority" or "majority" or other related terms
shall be governed by the definitions of such terms existing at the time of the execution of the will.
History: 1973 c 725 s 86

525.223 [Repealed, 1994 c 472 s 64]

525.23 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.231 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.24 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.241 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.242 SECONDARY EVIDENCE.
If no subscribing witness competent to testify resides in the state at the time appointed for
proving the will, the court may admit the testimony of other witnesses to prove the capacity of the
testator and the execution of the will, and as evidence of such execution may admit proof of the
handwriting of the testator and of the subscribing witnesses.
History: (8992-55) 1935 c 72 s 55

525.243 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.244 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.25 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.251 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.252 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.253 SALE OF DEVISED PROPERTY.
    Subdivision 1. General rule. Unless a contrary intent appears from the will, an agreement
made by a testator for the sale or transfer of real property disposed of by the will previously made,
does not revoke or adeem such disposal; but all the right, title, and interest of the decedent in such
property and in said agreement shall pass, according to the terms of the will. Such an agreement
shall be enforceable and subject to the same remedies for specific performance or otherwise
against the devisees as exists against a decedent's successors if the same passed by succession.
    Subd. 2. Applicability. This section shall be applicable to estates of decedents dying after
June 5, 1969.
History: 1969 c 944 s 1,2; 1975 c 347 s 99

525.26 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.261 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.262 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.27 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.271 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.272 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.273 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.28 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.281 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.282 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.29 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.291 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.292 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.30 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.301 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.302 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.303 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.304 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.31 MS 1971 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]
525.31 ESSENTIALS.
Whenever any person has been dead for more than three years and has left real or personal
property, or any interest therein, and no will or authenticated copy of a will probated outside this
state in accordance with the laws in force in the place where probated has been probated nor
proceedings had in this state, any interested person or assignee or successor of an interested
person may petition the court of the county of the decedent's residence or of the county wherein
such real or personal property, or any part thereof, is situated to determine the descent of such
property and to assign such property to the persons entitled thereto.
History: 1975 c 347 s 100; 1976 c 161 s 15

525.311 MS 1971 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]
525.311 CONTENTS OF PETITION.
Such petition shall show so far as known to the petitioner:
(1) The name of the decedent, the place of residence, the date and place of death, the age and
address at such date, and whether the decedent died testate or intestate;
(2) The names, ages, and addresses of heirs, personal representatives, and devisees;
(3) That no will or authenticated copy of a will probated outside of this state in accordance
with the laws in force in the place where probated has been probated nor proceedings had in
this state;
(4) A description of the real or personal property, or interest therein and if a homestead,
designated as such, the interest therein of the decedent, the value thereof at the date of death, and
the interest therein of the petitioner;
(5) If the decedent left a will which has not been probated in this state, such will or
authenticated copy of a will probated outside of this state in accordance with the laws in force in
the place where probated shall be filed and the petition shall contain a prayer for its probate.
(6) That the devisee or successors and assigns possess the property devised in accordance
with the will, any heir or a successor and assigns possess such property which passes to such heir
under the laws of intestate succession in force at the decedent's death, or such property was
not possessed or claimed by anyone by virtue of the decedent's title during the time period for
testacy proceedings.
(7) In any such proceeding wherein it appears that the property affected descends through
several decedents under circumstances qualifying for a descent proceeding under this section in
each case, the court in its discretion may consolidate the proceedings into one and may accept
the filing of one petition for the several decedents where no interests are prejudiced thereby. The
notice and other requirements of this section and sections 525.31 and 525.312 shall be complied
with, and the matter shall be then adjudicated under one title combining the names of the several
decedents and making appropriate findings for each decedent and determining heirship.
History: 1975 c 347 s 100; 1986 c 444

525.312 MS 1971 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]
525.312 DECREE OF DESCENT.
Upon the filing of such petition, the court shall fix the time and place for the hearing thereof,
notice of which shall be given pursuant to section 524.1-401. Notice of the hearing, in the
form prescribed by court rule, shall also be given under direction of the court administrator by
publication once a week for two consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper in the county where
the hearing is to be held, the last publication of which is to be at least ten days before the time
set for hearing. Upon proof of the petition and of the will if there be one; or upon proof of the
petition and of an authenticated copy of a will duly proved and allowed outside of this state in
accordance with the laws in force in the place where proved, if there be one; and if a clearance for
medical assistance claims is on file in the proceeding and any medical assistance claims are paid
or satisfied, the court shall allow the same and enter its decree of descent assigning the real or
personal property, or any interest therein, to the persons entitled thereto pursuant to the will or
such authenticated copy, if there be one, otherwise pursuant to the laws of intestate succession in
force at the time of the decedent's death. The decree of descent shall operate to assign the property
free and clear of any and all claims for medical assistance arising under section 525.313 without
regard to the final disposition of those claims. The court may appoint two or more disinterested
persons to appraise the property.
History: 1975 c 347 s 100; 1977 c 207 s 1; 1979 c 303 art 3 s 37; 1Sp1986 c 3 art 1 s 82;
2000 c 400 s 7

525.313 CLEARANCE FOR MEDICAL ASSISTANCE CLAIMS.
(a) The court shall not enter a decree of descent until the petitioner has filed a clearance for
medical assistance claims under this section, and until any medical assistance claims filed under
this section have been paid, settled, or otherwise finally disposed of.
(b) After filing the petition, the petitioner or the petitioner's attorney shall apply to the county
agency in the county in which the petition is pending for a clearance of medical assistance claims.
The application must state the decedent's name, date of birth, and Social Security number; the
name, date of birth, and Social Security number of any predeceased spouse of the decedent; the
names and addresses of the devisees and heirs; and the name, address, and telephone number of
the petitioner or the attorney making the application on behalf of the petitioner, and include a
copy of the notice of hearing.
(c) The county agency shall determine whether the decedent or any of the decedent's
predeceased spouses received medical assistance under chapter 256B or general assistance
medical care under chapter 256D giving rise to a claim under section 256B.15. If there are no
claims, the county agency shall issue the petitioner a clearance for medical assistance claims
stating no medical assistance claims exist. If there is a claim, the county agency shall issue
the petitioner a clearance for medical assistance claims stating that a claim exists and the total
amount of the claim. The county agency shall mail the completed clearance for medical assistance
claims to the applicant within 15 working days after receiving the application without cost to the
applicant or others.
(d) The petitioner or attorney shall file the certificate in the proceedings for the decree of
descent as soon as practicable after it is received. Notwithstanding any rule or law to the contrary,
if a medical assistance claim appears in a clearance for medical assistance claims, then:
(1) the claim shall be a claim against the decedent's property which is the subject of the
petition. The county agency issuing the certificate shall be the claimant. The filing of the
clearance for medical assistance claims in the proceeding for a decree of descent constitutes
presentation of the claim;
(2) the claim shall be an unbarred and undischarged claim and shall be payable, in whole or
in part, from the decedent's property which is the subject of the petition, including the net sale
proceeds from any sale of property free and clear of the claim under this section;
(3) the claim may be allowed, denied, appealed, and bear interest as provided for claims in
estates under chapter 524; and
(4) the county agency may collect, compromise, or otherwise settle the claim with the
estate, the petitioner, or the assignees of the property on whatever terms and conditions are
deemed appropriate.
(e) Any of the decedent's devisees, heirs, successors, assigns, or their successors and assigns,
may apply for a partial decree of descent to facilitate the good faith sale of their interest in any
real or personal property described in the petition free and clear of any medical assistance claim
any time before the entry of a decree of descent under section 525.312. The applicant must prove
an interest in the property as provided under section 525.312. The court may enter a partial decree
of descent any time after it could hear and decide the petition for a decree of descent. A partial
decree of descent shall assign the interests in the real and personal property described in the
application to the parties entitled to the property free and clear of any and all medical assistance
claims. The net sale proceeds from the sale shall be:
(1) substituted in the estate according to this section for the property sold;
(2) paid over to and held by the petitioner pending the entry of a decree of descent;
(3) used for payment of medical assistance claims; and
(4) distributed according to the decree of descent after any medical assistance claims are paid.
(f) The clearance for medical assistance claims must:
(1) include the case name, case number, and district court in which the proceeding for a
decree of descent is pending;
(2) include the name, date of birth, and Social Security number of the decedent and any of
the decedent's predeceased spouses;
(3) state whether there are medical assistance claims against the decedent, or a predeceased
spouse, and the total amount of each claim; and
(4) include the name, address, and telephone number of the county agency giving the
clearance for medical assistance claims. The certificate shall be signed by the director of the
county agency or the director's designee. The signature of the director or the director's designee
does not require an acknowledgment.
(g) All recoveries under this section are recoveries under section 256B.15.
(h) For purposes of this section and chapter 256B, all property identified in the petition and
all subsequent amendments to the petition shall constitute an estate.
(i) No clearance for medical assistance claims is required under this section and section
525.312 in an action for a decree of descent proceeding in which all of the following apply to
the decedent whose property is the subject of the proceeding:
(1) the decedent's estate was previously probated in this state;
(2) the previous probate was not a special administration or summary proceeding; and
(3) the decedent's property, which is the subject of the petition for a decree of descent, was
omitted from the previous probate.
History: 2000 c 400 s 8; 2002 c 347 s 4

525.314 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.315 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.316 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.32 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.321 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.322 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.323 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.324 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.33 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.331 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.34 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.35 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.36 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.37 MS 1971 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]
525.37 FORECLOSURE OF MORTGAGES.
The guardian or conservator shall have the same right to foreclose a mortgage, lien, or pledge
or collect the debt secured thereby as the ward or conservatee would have had, if competent, and
may complete any such proceeding commenced by such ward or conservatee.
History: 1975 c 347 s 101; 1986 c 444

525.38 MS 1971 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]
525.38 REALTY ACQUIRED.
When a foreclosure sale or a sale on execution for the recovery of a debt due the estate is
had or redemption is made the personal representative shall receive the money paid and execute
the necessary satisfaction or release. If bid in by the personal representative or if bid in by the
decedent or ward and the redemption period expired during the administration of the estate or
guardianship or conservatorship without redemption, the real estate shall be treated as personal
property. If not so sold, mortgaged, or leased, the real estate or, if so sold, mortgaged, or leased,
the proceeds shall be assigned or distributed to the same persons and in the same proportions as if
it had been part of the personal estate of the decedent, unless otherwise provided in the will.
History: 1975 c 347 s 102

525.39 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.391 PROPERTY FRAUDULENTLY CONVEYED.
When the property available for the payment of debts is insufficient to pay the same in full,
the representative may recover any property which the decedent may have disposed of with
intent to defraud creditors, or by conveyance or transfer which for any reason is void as to them.
Upon the application of any creditor and upon making the payment of or providing security
for the expenses thereof as directed by the court, the representative shall prosecute all actions
necessary to recover the property.
History: (8992-95) 1935 c 72 s 95; 1986 c 444

525.392 PROPERTY CONVERTED.
If any person embezzles, alienates, or converts to personal use any of the personal estate of
a decedent or ward before the appointment of a representative, such person shall be liable for
double the value of the property so embezzled, alienated, or converted.
History: (8992-96) 1935 c 72 s 96; 1986 c 444

525.393 DISPOSAL BY CORONER.
When personal property of a decedent has come into the custody of any coroner and has
not been surrendered as hereinafter provided and no will has been admitted to probate or no
administration has been had within three months after the decedent's death, the coroner, after the
expiration of said time, shall file in the court an inventory of all such property and a fingerprint of
each finger of each hand of the decedent. Wearing apparel and such other property as the coroner
determines to be of nominal value, may be surrendered by the coroner to the spouse or to any
blood relative of the decedent. If no will is admitted to probate nor administration had within six
months after death, the coroner shall sell the same at public auction upon such notice and in such
manner as the court may direct. The coroner shall be allowed reasonable expenses for the care
and sale of the property, and shall deposit the net proceeds of such sale with the county treasurer
in the name of the decedent, if known. The treasurer shall give the coroner duplicate receipts
therefor, one of which the coroner shall file with the county auditor and the other in the court. If
a representative shall qualify within six years from the time of such deposit, the treasurer shall
pay the same to such representative.
History: (8992-97) 1935 c 72 s 97; Ex1936 c 48; 1975 c 347 s 103; 1986 c 444

525.40 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.401 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.41 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.411 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.412 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.413 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.42 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.421 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.43 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.431 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.44 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.441 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.442 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.45 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.46 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.47 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.475 MS 1974 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]
525.475 DORMANT ESTATE; REMOVAL OF REPRESENTATIVE OR ATTORNEY.
(1) In a supervised administration under sections 524.3-501 to 524.3-505:
(a) If an order of complete settlement of the estate or a decree, as provided in section
524.3-1001, is not entered within 18 months after appointment of the personal representative, the
court shall order the personal representative and the attorney to show good cause why an order of
complete settlement of the estate or a decree has not been entered.
(b) If good cause is not shown the court shall order the removal of the personal representative,
instruct the personal representative to dismiss the attorney and employ another attorney, if
necessary, to complete the administration of the estate, or shall order such other or further relief as
may be appropriate. In addition, the court may refer a record of the proceeding to the state Board
of Professional Responsibility. If removal of the personal representative is ordered, the court shall
also direct by order the disposition of the assets remaining in the name of, or under the control of,
the personal representative being removed.
(c) If good cause is shown, the court shall order that the time for administration of the estate
be extended for an additional period not to exceed one year. If an order of complete settlement
of the estate or a decree, as provided in section 524.3-1001, is not entered within such extended
period, the court shall again order the personal representative and the attorney to show cause why
an order of complete settlement or a decree has not been entered. If good cause is not shown,
the provisions of paragraph (b) of this section shall be applicable. If good cause is shown, the
court shall order that the time for administration of the estate be again extended for an additional
period not to exceed one year and the provisions of this paragraph (c) of this section shall be
applicable to such additional extension.
(2) In an administration other than a supervised administration under sections 524.3-501 to
524.3-505:
(a) Upon the petition of an interested person and upon showing of probable cause for relief,
the court shall order the personal representative and the attorney to show cause why the estate has
not been closed pursuant to the provisions of sections 524.3-1001 to 524.3-1003.
(b) If good cause is not shown, the court shall order the removal of the personal
representative, instruct the personal representative to dismiss the attorney and employ another
attorney, if necessary, to complete the administration of the estate or shall order such other or
further relief as may be appropriate. In addition, the court may refer a record of the proceeding
to the state Board of Professional Responsibility. If removal of the personal representative is
ordered, the court shall also direct by order the disposition of the assets remaining in the name of,
or under the control of, the personal representative being removed.
(c) If good cause is shown, the court shall enter an order so finding. An interested party
may thereafter again petition the court for an order directing the personal representative and the
attorney to show cause why the estate has not been closed pursuant to the provisions of sections
524.3-1001 to 524.3-1003.
(3) An attorney dismissed pursuant to this section and who is seeking attorney fees for
services rendered to the estate has the burden of affirmatively proving that the estate has benefited
from the services and that the benefits warrant the payment of the requested fee.
History: 1975 c 347 s 104; 1986 c 444

525.48 FINAL ACCOUNT, ATTORNEY FEES AND REPRESENTATIVE FEES.
Any full or final account to distributees shall include a statement of attorney fees and
representative fees. This statement shall include the total fees charged to date and estimated
future fees to be charged.
History: (8992-114) 1935 c 72 s 114; 1974 c 442 art 9 s 2; 1975 c 347 s 105

525.481 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.482 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.483 RECORDING DECREE.
A certified copy of any decree of distribution may be filed for record in the office of the
county recorder of any county. It shall not be necessary to pay real estate taxes in order to record
such certified copy, but the same shall be first presented to the county auditor for entry upon the
transfer record and shall have noted thereon "Transfer entered" over that person's official signature.
Upon request, the court shall furnish a certified copy of any decree of distribution, omitting the
description of any property except that specified in the request, but indicating omissions by the
words "other property omitted." Such copy and its record shall have the same force and effect as
to property therein described as though the entire decree had been so certified and recorded.
History: (8992-117) 1935 c 72 s 117; 1976 c 181 s 2; 1986 c 444

525.484 PROPERTY OF DECEASED PERSONS TO BE TRANSFERRED TO
REPRESENTATIVES OF FOREIGN COUNTRIES IN CERTAIN CASES.
Whenever any person who is entitled to any property in an estate is a citizen of and a
resident in any foreign country with the government of which the United States maintains
diplomatic relations, the personal representative of the estate may deliver or pay such property to
an accredited diplomatic or consular representative of the government of such foreign country
for delivery or payment to such person, or, if such property has been deposited with the county
treasurer pursuant to section 524.3-914, the court upon application as therein provided shall grant
its order authorizing and directing the county auditor to issue a warrant to the county treasurer to
pay such money or deliver such property to such accredited diplomatic or consular representative,
and the personal representative of such estate or the county treasurer shall be discharged from
that person's trust and all further liability thereunder upon filing the receipt of such diplomatic
or consular representative for such property with such court, provided that such diplomatic or
consular representative has been licensed by proper federal authority to receive such property of
the nationals of such country, where such license is required.
This section shall not apply where such citizen of and resident in any such foreign country
has appeared in person or by duly authorized representative other than such diplomatic or consular
representative.
History: 1943 c 477 s 1,2; 1975 c 347 s 106; 1986 c 444

525.485 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.486 MS 1971 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]
525.486 TERMINATION OF TRUSTS; DISTRIBUTION.
In any administration of an estate in probate, wherein the decedent died testate and has
established a testamentary trust, and it appears to the court that the operative events have occurred
whereby said trust is terminated prior to distribution in whole or in part, the court shall have
jurisdiction in its discretion to adjudge and determine that said trust be terminated in whole or
in part without further proceedings in any other court of general jurisdiction and may make its
decree or order of distribution accordingly to the extent that the trust is no longer operative.
History: 1975 c 347 s 107

525.49 MS 1957 [Repealed, 1961 c 265 s 3]
525.49 MS 1971 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.491 MS 1957 [Repealed, 1961 c 265 s 3]
525.491 ATTORNEY'S LIEN.
When any attorney at law has been retained to appear for any heir or devisee, such attorney
may perfect a lien upon the client's interest in the estate for compensation for such services as may
have been rendered respecting such interest, by serving upon the personal representative before
distribution is made, a notice of intent to claim a lien for agreed compensation, or the reasonable
value of services. The perfecting of such a lien, as herein provided, shall have the same effect
as the perfecting of a lien as provided in section 481.13, and such lien may be enforced and the
amount thereupon determined in the manner therein provided.
History: 1961 c 265 s 2; 1975 c 347 s 108; 1986 c 444

525.50 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.501 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.502 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.503 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.504 MS 1971 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]
525.504 MS 1980 [Repealed, 1981 c 313 s 26]

525.51 [Repealed, 1995 c 130 s 21]

525.515 BASIS FOR ATTORNEY'S FEES.
(a) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, an attorney performing services for the estate at
the instance of the personal representative, guardian or conservator shall have such compensation
therefor out of the estate as shall be just and reasonable. This section shall apply to all probate
proceedings.
(b) In determining what is a fair and reasonable attorney's fee effect shall be given to a prior
agreement in writing by a testator concerning attorney fees. Where there is no prior agreement
in writing with the testator consideration shall be given to the following factors in determining
what is a fair and reasonable attorney's fee:
(1) The time and labor required;
(2) The experience and knowledge of the attorney;
(3) The complexity and novelty of problems involved;
(4) The extent of the responsibilities assumed and the results obtained; and
(5) The sufficiency of assets properly available to pay for the services;
(c) An interested person who desires that the court review attorney fees shall seek review of
attorney fees in the manner provided in section 524.3-721. In determining the reasonableness of
the attorney fees, consideration shall be given to all the factors listed in clause (b) and the value of
the estate shall not be the controlling factor.
History: 1971 c 497 s 8; Ex1971 c 48 s 50; 1974 c 442 art 9 s 3; 1975 c 347 s 111; 1976
c 2 s 146

525.52 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.521 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.522 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.523 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.524 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.525 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.526 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.527 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.528 FEDERAL ESTATE TAX; MARITAL DEDUCTION.
Whenever the decedent leaves a surviving spouse or by law the spouse is presumed to
have survived and the representative of the decedent's estate, and the decedent's trustee or any
other fiduciary is permitted or required to exercise a discretion, even though stated as sole,
absolute or uncontrolled, to select assets in kind at values other than their values at the date
or dates of distribution thereof, including values to be determined in the discretion of the
representative, trustee or other fiduciary and even though such discretion is stated as sole, absolute
or uncontrolled, to satisfy a bequest or transfer within the meaning of the marital deduction
provisions of section 2056 of the United States Internal Revenue Code or such cognate provisions
of federal law as may hereafter be applicable, such representative, trustee or other fiduciary shall
be subject to the general fiduciary obligation of fairness and pursuant thereto shall select assets
fairly representative of appreciation or depreciation in the value of all property available on
the date or dates of distribution for selection and distribution in satisfaction of such bequest or
transfer, unless other language of the will or trust instrument expressly refers to this section and
states that it shall not be applicable. This section shall apply to the estates of decedents dying
after May 26, 1965, to trusts created after May 26, 1965, and to trusts, whenever created, which
are revocable after May 26, 1965.
History: 1965 c 765 s 1

525.53 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.531 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.532 DISCLAIMER OF INTERESTS PASSING BY WILL, INTESTATE SUCCESSION
OR UNDER CERTAIN POWERS OF APPOINTMENT.
    Subdivision 1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless otherwise clearly required by
the context:
(a) "Beneficiary" means and includes any person entitled, but for that person's disclaimer,
to take an interest: by intestate succession; by devise; by legacy or bequest; by succession to
a disclaimed interest by will, intestate succession or through the exercise or nonexercise of a
testamentary power of appointment; by virtue of a renunciation and election to take against a will;
as beneficiary of a testamentary trust; pursuant to the exercise or nonexercise of a testamentary
power of appointment; as donee of a power of appointment created by testamentary instrument; or
otherwise under a testamentary instrument;
(b) "Interest" means and includes the whole of any property, real or personal, legal or
equitable, or any fractional part, share or particular portion or specific assets thereof or any estate
in any such property or power to appoint, consume, apply or expend property or any other right,
power, privilege or immunity relating thereto;
(c) "Disclaimer" means a written instrument which declines, refuses, releases, renounces or
disclaims an interest which would otherwise be succeeded to by a beneficiary, which instrument
defines the nature and extent of the interest disclaimed thereby and which must be signed,
witnessed and acknowledged by the disclaimant in the manner provided for deeds of real estate.
    Subd. 2. Right to disclaim. A beneficiary may disclaim any interest in whole or in part, or
with reference to specific parts, shares or assets thereof, by filing a disclaimer in court in the
manner hereinafter provided. A guardian, executor, administrator or other personal representative
of the estate of a minor, incompetent or deceased beneficiary, if that person deems it in the best
interests of those interested in the estate of such beneficiary and of those who take the beneficiary's
interest by virtue of the disclaimer and not detrimental to the best interests of the beneficiary,
with or without an order of the probate court, may execute and file a disclaimer on behalf of the
beneficiary within the time and in the manner in which the beneficiary could disclaim if living,
of legal age and competent. A beneficiary likewise may execute and file a disclaimer by agent
or attorney so empowered.
    Subd. 3. Filing deadline. Such disclaimer shall be filed at any time after the creation of the
interest, but in all events within nine months after the death of the person by whom the interest
was created or from whom it would have been received, or, if the disclaimant is not finally
ascertained as a beneficiary or the interest has not become indefeasibly fixed both in quality and
quantity as of the death of such person, then such disclaimer shall be filed not later than nine
months after the event which would cause the disclaimant so to become finally ascertained and
the interest to become indefeasibly fixed both in quality and quantity.
    Subd. 4. Effectiveness; procedures. Such disclaimer shall be effective upon being filed in
the court in which the estate of the person by whom the interest was created or from whom it
would have been received is, or has been, administered or, if no probate administration has
been commenced, then in the court where it would be pending if commenced. A copy of the
disclaimer shall be delivered or mailed to the personal representative, trustee or other person
having legal title to, or possession of, the property in which the interest disclaimed exists, and
no such representative, trustee or person shall be liable for any otherwise proper distribution or
other disposition made without actual notice of the disclaimer. If an interest in or relating to real
estate is disclaimed, the original of the disclaimer, or a copy of the disclaimer certified as true and
complete by the court administrator of the court wherein the same has been filed, shall be filed in
the office of the county recorder or the registrar of titles, as hereinafter provided, in the county or
counties where the real estate is situated and shall constitute notice to all persons only from and
after the time of such filing. If title to such real estate has not been registered under the provisions
of chapter 508, such disclaimer or certified copy shall be filed with the county recorder. If title
to such real estate has been registered under the provisions of chapter 508, such disclaimer or
certified copy shall be filed with the registrar of titles.
    Subd. 5. Descent of disclaimed property. Unless the person by whom the interest was
created or from whom it would have been received has otherwise provided by will or other
appropriate instrument with reference to the possibility of a disclaimer by the beneficiary, the
property in which the interest disclaimed existed shall descend, be distributed or otherwise be
disposed of in the same manner as if the disclaimant had died immediately preceding the death
or other event which causes the disclaimant to become finally ascertained as a beneficiary and
the interest to become indefeasibly fixed both in quality and quantity, and, in any case, the
disclaimer shall relate for all purposes to such date, whether filed before or after such death or
other event. However, one disclaiming an interest in a nonresiduary gift, devise or bequest shall
not be excluded, unless the disclaimer so provides, from sharing in a gift, devise or bequest of
the residue even though, through lapse, such residue includes the assets disclaimed. An interest
of any nature in or to the estate of an intestate may be declined, refused or disclaimed as herein
provided without ever vesting in the disclaimant.
    Subd. 6. Limitation. The right to disclaim otherwise conferred by this section shall be
barred if the beneficiary is insolvent at the time of the event giving rise to the right to disclaim.
Any voluntary assignment or transfer of, or contract to assign or transfer, an interest in real or
personal property, or written waiver of the right to disclaim the succession to an interest in real
or personal property, by any beneficiary, or any sale or other disposition of an interest in real or
personal property pursuant to judicial process, made before the beneficiary has filed a disclaimer,
as herein provided, bars the right otherwise hereby conferred on such beneficiary to disclaim as
to such interest.
    Subd. 7. Spendthrift and similar provisions. The right to disclaim granted by this section
shall exist irrespective of any limitation imposed on the interest of the disclaimant in the nature
of an express or implied spendthrift provision or similar restriction. A disclaimer, when filed as
provided in this section, or a written waiver of the right to disclaim, shall be binding upon the
disclaimant or beneficiary so waiving and all parties thereafter claiming by, through or under
that person, except that a beneficiary so waiving may thereafter transfer, assign or release the
interest if such is not prohibited by an express or implied spendthrift provision. If an interest in
real estate is disclaimed and the disclaimer is duly filed in accordance with the provisions of
subdivision 4, the spouse of the disclaimant, if such spouse has consented to the disclaimer in
writing, shall thereupon be automatically debarred from any spouse's statutory or common law
right or estate by curtesy or in dower or otherwise in such real estate to which such spouse, except
for such disclaimer, would have been entitled.
    Subd. 8. Rights under other law. This section shall not abridge the right of any person,
apart from this section, under any existing or future statute or rule of law, to disclaim any interest
or to assign, convey, release, renounce or otherwise dispose of any interest.
    Subd. 9. Interests existing on May 22, 1965. Any interest which exists on May 22, 1965
but which has not then become indefeasibly fixed both in quality and quantity, or the taker of
which has not then become finally ascertained, may be disclaimed after May 22, 1965 in the
manner provided herein.
History: 1965 c 552 s 1; 1975 c 347 s 112,113; 1976 c 181 s 2; 1980 c 439 s 33; 1986 c
444; 1Sp1986 c 3 art 1 s 82

525.539 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.54 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.541 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.542 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.543 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.544 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.545 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.55 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.5501 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.551 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.5515 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.552 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.56 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.561 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.562 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.57 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.58 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.581 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.582 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.583 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.59 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.591 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.60 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.61 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.611 [Repealed, 1980 c 493 s 40]

525.612 [Repealed, 1980 c 493 s 40]

525.613 [Repealed, 1980 c 493 s 40]

525.614 [Repealed, 1980 c 493 s 40]

525.615 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.6155 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.616 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.6165 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.617 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.6175 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.618 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.6185 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.619 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.6192 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.6194 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.6195 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.6196 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.6197 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.6198 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.6199 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.62 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.621 [Repealed, 1980 c 493 s 40]

525.63 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.64 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.641 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.642 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.65 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.651 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.652 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.66 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.661 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.662 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.67 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.68 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.69 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.691 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.692 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.693 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.70 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.701 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.702 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.703 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.705 [Repealed, 2003 c 12 art 2 s 8]

525.71 APPEALABLE ORDERS.
(a) Appeals to the Court of Appeals may be taken from any of the following orders,
judgments, and decrees issued by a judge of the court under this chapter or chapter 524:
(1) an order admitting, or refusing to admit, a will to probate;
(2) an order appointing, or refusing to appoint, or removing, or refusing to remove, a
representative other than a special administrator, temporary or emergency guardian, agent,
or conservator;
(3) an order authorizing, or refusing to authorize, the sale, mortgage, or lease of real estate,
or confirming, or refusing to confirm, the sale or lease of real estate;
(4) an order directing, or refusing to direct, a conveyance or lease of real estate under contract;
(5) an order permitting, or refusing to permit, the filing of a claim, or allowing or disallowing
a claim or counterclaim, in whole or in part, when the amount in controversy exceeds $100;
(6) an order setting apart, or refusing to set apart, property, or making, or refusing to make,
an allowance for the spouse or children;
(7) an order determining, or refusing to determine, venue; an order transferring, or refusing
to transfer, venue;
(8) an order directing, or refusing to direct, the payment of a bequest or distributive share
when the amount in controversy exceeds $100;
(9) an order allowing, or refusing to allow, an account of a representative or any part of it
when the amount in controversy exceeds $100;
(10) an order adjudging a person in contempt;
(11) an order vacating, or refusing to vacate, a previous appealable order, judgment, or
decree alleged to have been procured by fraud or misrepresentation, or through surprise or
excusable inadvertence or neglect;
(12) a judgment or decree of partial or final distribution or an order determining or
confirming distribution or any order of general protection;
(13) an order entered pursuant to section 576.142;
(14) an order granting or denying restoration to capacity;
(15) an order made directing, or refusing to direct, the payment of representative's fees or
attorneys' fees, and in such case the representative and the attorney shall each be deemed an
aggrieved party and entitled to appeal;
(16) an order, judgment, or decree relating to or affecting estate taxes or refusing to amend,
modify, or vacate such an order, judgment, or decree; and
(17) an order extending the time for the settlement of the estate beyond five years from the
date of the appointment of the representative.
(b) Appeals to the Court of Appeals may also be taken from any other properly appealable
order pursuant to the Rules of Civil Appellate Procedure.
(c) An order appointing, refusing to appoint, removing, or refusing to remove a temporary or
emergency guardian under sections 524.5-204, paragraphs (b) and (c), 524.5-311, and 524.5-312,
or temporary or emergency conservator or agent under sections 524.5-406, paragraph (f), and
524.5-412, or a special administrator under section 524.3-614, is not an appealable order under
this section or the Rules of Civil Appellate Procedure.
History: (8992-164) 1935 c 72 s 164; 1939 c 270 s 9; 1941 c 411 s 1; 1963 c 740 s 24; 1974
c 447 s 4; 1975 c 347 s 135; 1979 c 303 art 3 s 38; 1983 c 247 s 186; 2004 c 146 art 2 s 8

525.711 [Repealed, 1983 c 247 s 219]

525.712 REQUISITES.
The appeal may be taken under the Rules of Appellate Procedure by any person aggrieved
after service by any party of written notice of the filing of the order, judgment, or decree appealed
from, or if no written notice is served, within six months after the filing of the order, judgment, or
decree. Except as provided in this section, the appeal shall be perfected and determined upon the
record as provided in the Rules of Appellate Procedure.
History: (8992-166) 1935 c 72 s 166; 1937 c 435 s 21; 1953 c 476 s 1; 1980 c 344 s 1; 1987
c 346 s 17; 1996 c 305 art 1 s 116; 2000 c 362 s 4

525.713 [Repealed, 1980 c 344 s 2]

525.714 SUSPENSION BY APPEAL.
The appeal shall suspend the operation of the order, judgment, or decree appealed from until
the appeal is determined or the Court of Appeals orders otherwise. The Court of Appeals may
require the appellant to give additional bond for the payment of damages which may be awarded
against the appellant in consequence of the suspension, on the appellant's failure to obtain a
reversal of the order, judgment, or decree appealed from. Nothing herein contained shall prevent
the probate court from appointing special representatives nor prevent special representatives from
continuing to act as such.
History: (8992-168) 1935 c 72 s 168; 1983 c 247 s 187; 1986 c 444

525.72 [Repealed, 1980 c 344 s 2]

525.73 AFFIRMANCE; REVERSAL.
When the appellant fails to prosecute the appeal, or the order, judgment, or decree appealed
from or reviewed is sustained, judgment shall be entered in the Court of Appeals affirming the
decision of the court. Upon the filing in the court of a certified transcript of the judgment, the
court shall proceed as if no appeal had been taken. If the order, judgment, or decree reviewed is
reversed or modified, the Court of Appeals shall remand the case to the court with directions to
proceed in conformity with its decision. Upon the filing in the court of a certified transcript of the
judgment, it shall proceed as directed by the Court of Appeals.
History: (8992-170) 1935 c 72 s 170; 1983 c 247 s 188; 1986 c 444; 1995 c 189 s 8; 1996
c 277 s 1

525.731 JUDGMENT; EXECUTION.
The party prevailing on the appeal shall be entitled to costs and disbursements to be taxed
as in a civil action. If judgment be rendered against the estate, they shall be an adjudicated
claim against it. If judgment be rendered against an appellant other than the state, the Veterans'
Administration, or representative appealing on behalf of the estate, judgment shall be entered
against the appellant and the sureties on the appeal bond and execution may issue thereon.
History: (8992-171) 1935 c 72 s 171; 1986 c 444

525.74 [Repealed, 1982 c 501 s 26; 1983 c 247 s 219]

525.749 [Repealed, 1967 c 638 s 22]

525.75 [Repealed, 1967 c 638 s 22]

525.751 [Repealed, 1967 c 638 s 22]

525.752 [Repealed, 1967 c 638 s 22]

525.753 [Repealed, 1967 c 638 s 22]

525.754 [Repealed, 1967 c 638 s 22]

525.76 [Repealed, 1967 c 638 s 22]

525.761 [Repealed, 1967 c 638 s 22]

525.762 [Repealed, 1967 c 638 s 22]

525.763 [Repealed, 1967 c 638 s 22]

525.77 [Repealed, 1967 c 638 s 22]

525.78 [Repealed, 1967 c 638 s 22]

525.79 [Repealed, 1967 c 638 s 22]

525.80 MS 1971 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]
525.80 REPRESENTATIVE.
As used in this chapter, the word "representative," unless the context otherwise indicates,
includes personal representatives as that term is defined in chapter 524, guardians, and
conservators.
History: 1975 c 347 s 136

525.805 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.81 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.82 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.83 NOTICE.
When notice of hearing is required by any provision of this chapter by reference to this
section, the notice shall be given once a week for three consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper
designated by the petitioner in the county wherein the proceedings are pending; or, if no such
designation be made, in any legal newspaper in the county; or, if the city of the decedent's
residence is situated in more than one county, in any legal newspaper in the city. The first
publication shall be had within two weeks after the date of the order fixing the time and place
for the hearing.
At least 14 days prior to the date fixed for hearing the petitioner, the petitioner's attorney
or agent, shall in guardianship or conservatorship mail a copy of the notice to the ward or
conservatee, and other persons as the court may direct and in decedents' estates shall mail a copy
of the notice to each heir, devisee, and legatee whose name and address are known.
Proof of publication and mailing shall be filed before the hearing. No defect in any notice nor
in the publication or service thereof shall invalidate any proceedings.
History: (8992-188) 1935 c 72 s 188; 1941 c 422 s 1; 1957 c 30 s 1; 1971 c 497 s 7; 1973 c
123 art 5 s 7; 1973 c 404 s 1; 1975 c 347 s 137; 1980 c 493 s 25; 1986 c 444

525.831 NOTICE TO ATTORNEY GENERAL OF DEVISES FOR CHARITABLE
PURPOSES.
Whenever a will provides for a devise for a charitable purpose, as defined in section 501B.35,
subdivision 2 , the personal representative shall provide the attorney general with the notices or
documents, if any, required by section 501B.41, subdivision 5.
History: 1978 c 601 s 28; 1989 c 340 art 2 s 5

525.84 ERRONEOUS ESCHEAT.
When any property has escheated to the state because the decedent left surviving no spouse
nor kindred or because of the failure of a devisee or legatee to receive under a will admitted to
probate, or when application is made to prove a will disposing of property escheated to the state,
upon the petition of the representative or any person interested in the estate and upon 20 days'
notice to the attorney general and to such other persons as the court may direct, the court may
admit the will to probate as provided by law, or make its determination of heirship and enter its
order assigning the escheated property to the persons entitled thereto.
History: (8992-189) 1935 c 72 s 189; 1975 c 347 s 138

525.841 ESCHEAT RETURNED.
In all such cases the commissioner of finance shall be furnished with a certified copy of the
court's order assigning the escheated property to the persons entitled thereto, and upon notification
of payment of the estate tax, the commissioner of finance shall draw a warrant or execute a proper
conveyance to the persons designated in such order. In the event any escheated property has been
sold pursuant to sections 11A.04, clause (9), and 11A.10, subdivision 2, or 16B.281 to 16B.287,
then the warrant shall be for the appraised value as established during the administration of the
decedent's estate. There is hereby annually appropriated from any moneys in the state treasury not
otherwise appropriated an amount sufficient to make payment to all such designated persons. No
interest shall be allowed on any amount paid to such persons.
History: (8992-190) 1935 c 72 s 190; 1957 c 861 s 8; 1973 c 492 s 14; 1975 c 347 s 139;
1979 c 303 art 3 s 40; 1980 c 607 art 14 s 46; 1986 c 444; 2003 c 112 art 2 s 49; 2004 c 262
art 1 s 40

525.85 DISCLOSURE PROCEEDINGS.
Upon the filing of a petition by the representative or any person interested in the estate,
alleging that any person has concealed, converted, embezzled, or disposed of any property
belonging to the estate of a decedent or that any person has possession or knowledge of any
will or codicil of such decedent, or of any instruments in writing relating to such property, the
court, upon such notice as it may direct may order such person to appear before it for disclosure.
Refusal to appear or submit to examination, or failure to obey any lawful order based thereon
shall constitute contempt of court.
History: (8992-191) 1935 c 72 s 191

525.86 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.87 [Repealed, 1975 c 347 s 144]

525.88 STATE PATENTS.
Where patents for public lands have been or may be issued, in pursuance of any law of this
state, to a person who has died before the date of such patent, the title to the land designated
therein shall inure to and become vested in the heirs, devisees, or assignees of such deceased
patentees as if the patent had been issued to the deceased person during life.
History: (8992-194) 1935 c 72 s 194

525.881 FEDERAL PATENTS.
When any person holding a homestead or tree claim entry under the laws of the United
States has died before making final proof and final proof has afterwards been made by the heirs,
devisees, or representatives, and a patent has been granted to the"heirs" or "devisees," the district
court of the county in which the real estate so patented is situated, may determine who are such
heirs or devisees, and may determine their respective shares in such homestead or tree claim. The
provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure relating to the determination of adverse claims to real
estate in so far as the same may be applicable, shall pertain to and govern the procedure in the
action provided for in this section.
History: (8992-195) 1921 c 36 s 2; 1935 c 72 s 195; 1986 c 444

525.89 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]

525.90 [Renumbered 524.2-702]

525.91 MS 1971 [Repealed, 1974 c 442 art 8 s 524.8-102]
525.91 LETTERS, CONTENTS.
All letters issued by the courts to representatives of estates of deceased persons shall state
the date of death of the deceased.
History: 1975 c 347 s 140

525.921 DEFINITIONS.
    Subdivision 1. Scope. For the purposes of sections 525.921 to 525.9224 the terms defined in
this section have the meanings given them.
    Subd. 1a. Anatomical gift. "Anatomical gift" means a donation of all or part of a human
body to take effect upon or after death.
    Subd. 2.[Repealed, 1991 c 202 s 42]
    Subd. 3. Decedent. "Decedent" means a deceased individual and includes a stillborn infant
or an embryo or fetus that has died of natural causes in utero.
    Subd. 3a. Document of gift. "Document of gift" means a card, a statement attached to
or imprinted on a motor vehicle operator's or chauffeur's license, a will, or other writing used
to make an anatomical gift.
    Subd. 4. Donor. "Donor" means an individual who makes an anatomical gift of all or part of
the individual's body.
    Subd. 4a. Enucleator. "Enucleator" means an individual who has completed a course in eye
enucleation conducted and certified by the department of ophthalmology of any accredited college
of medicine, and holds a valid certificate of competence for completing the course.
    Subd. 5. Hospital. "Hospital" means a facility licensed, accredited, or approved as a hospital
under the laws of any state or a facility operated as a hospital by the United States government,
a state, or a subdivision of a state.
    Subd. 6. Part. "Part" means organs, tissues, eyes, bones, arteries, blood, other fluids and
any other portions of a human body.
    Subd. 7. Person. "Person" means an individual, corporation, government or governmental
subdivision or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership or association, or any other legal
entity.
    Subd. 8. Physician or surgeon. "Physician" or "surgeon" means an individual licensed
or otherwise authorized to practice medicine and surgery or osteopathy and surgery under the
laws of any state.
    Subd. 8a. Procurement organization. "Procurement organization" means a person licensed,
accredited, or approved under the laws of any state for procurement, distribution, or storage
of human bodies or parts.
    Subd. 9. State. "State" includes any state, district, commonwealth, territory, insular
possession, and any other area subject to the legislative authority of the United States of America.
    Subd. 10. Technician. "Technician" means an individual who is appropriately trained to
remove or process a part.
History: 1969 c 79 s 1; 1986 c 444; 1991 c 202 s 18-27

525.9211 MAKING, AMENDING, REVOKING, AND REFUSING TO MAKE
ANATOMICAL GIFTS BY INDIVIDUAL.
    Subdivision 1. Title. This section may be cited as the "Darlene Luther Anatomical Gift Act."
    Subd. 2. Requirements. (a) An individual who is at least 18 years of age, or a minor with
the written consent of a parent or legal guardian, may (i) make an anatomical gift for any of the
purposes stated in section 525.9215, paragraph (a), (ii) limit an anatomical gift to one or more
of those purposes, or (iii) refuse to make an anatomical gift.
(b) An anatomical gift may be made by a will or by a document of gift signed by the donor.
If the donor cannot sign, the document of gift must be signed by another individual and by two
witnesses, all of whom have signed at the direction and in the presence of the donor and of
each other, and state that it has been so signed.
(c) If a document of gift is attached to or imprinted on a donor's motor vehicle operator's or
chauffeur's license, the document of gift must comply with paragraph (b). Revocation, suspension,
expiration, or cancellation of the license does not invalidate the anatomical gift.
(d) A document of gift may designate a particular physician or surgeon to carry out the
appropriate procedures. In the absence of a designation or if the designee is not available, the
donee or other person authorized to accept the anatomical gift may employ or authorize any
physician, surgeon, technician, or enucleator to carry out the appropriate procedures.
(e) An anatomical gift by will takes effect upon death of the testator, whether or not the will
is probated. If, after death, the will is declared invalid for testamentary purposes, the validity
of the anatomical gift is unaffected.
(f) A donor may amend or revoke an anatomical gift, not made by will, only by:
(1) a signed statement;
(2) an oral statement made in the presence of two individuals;
(3) any form of communication during a terminal illness or injury addressed to a health
care professional or member of the clergy; or
(4) the delivery of a signed statement to a specified donee to whom a document of gift
had been delivered.
(g) The donor of an anatomical gift made by will may amend or revoke the gift in the manner
provided for amendment or revocation of wills, or as provided in paragraph (f).
(h) An anatomical gift that is not revoked by the donor before death is irrevocable and does
not require the consent or concurrence of any person after the donor's death. An anatomical gift
designation made by a will, a designation on a driver's license or Minnesota identification card
made under section 171.07, subdivision 5, or a health care directive under chapter 145C, and not
revoked, establishes the intent of the person making the designation and may not be overridden by
any other person. For a donor's revocation of an anatomical gift made by a document of gift to be
valid, the donor must use one of the methods of revocation in paragraph (f).
(i) An individual may refuse to make an anatomical gift of the individual's body or part by
(i) a writing signed in the same manner as a document of gift, or (ii) any other writing used to
identify the individual as refusing to make an anatomical gift. During a terminal illness or injury,
the refusal may be an oral statement or other form of communication.
(j) In the absence of contrary indications by the donor, an anatomical gift of a part is neither
a refusal to give other parts nor a limitation on an anatomical gift under section 525.9212 or on a
removal or release of other parts under section 525.9213.
(k) In the absence of contrary indications by the donor, a revocation or amendment of an
anatomical gift is not a refusal to make another anatomical gift. If the donor intends a revocation to
be a refusal to make an anatomical gift, the donor shall make the refusal pursuant to paragraph (i).
History: 1991 c 202 s 28; 2002 c 349 s 2

525.9212 MAKING, REVOKING, AND OBJECTING TO ANATOMICAL GIFTS, BY
OTHERS.
(a) Any member of the following classes of persons, in the order of priority listed, may make
an anatomical gift of all or a part of the decedent's body for an authorized purpose, unless the
decedent has made a refusal to make that anatomical gift that is unrevoked at the time of death:
(1) the spouse of the decedent;
(2) an adult son or daughter of the decedent;
(3) either parent of the decedent;
(4) an adult brother or sister of the decedent;
(5) a grandparent of the decedent; and
(6) a guardian of the decedent at the time of death or a health care agent or proxy appointed
by the decedent under a health care directive as defined in section 145C.01, a living will under
chapter 145B, or other similar document executed in another state and enforceable under the
laws of this state.
(b) An anatomical gift may not be made by a person listed in paragraph (a) if:
(1) a person in a prior class is available at the time of death to make an anatomical gift;
(2) the person proposing to make an anatomical gift knows of a refusal or contrary
indications by the decedent; or
(3) the person proposing to make an anatomical gift knows of an objection to making an
anatomical gift by a member of the person's class or a prior class.
(c) An anatomical gift by a person authorized under paragraph (a) must be made by (i) a
document of gift signed by the person, or (ii) the person's telegraphic, recorded telephonic, or other
recorded message, or other form of communication from the person that is contemporaneously
reduced to writing and signed by the recipient.
(d) An anatomical gift by a person authorized under paragraph (a) may be revoked by any
member of the same or a prior class if, before procedures have begun for the removal of a part
from the body of the decedent, the physician, surgeon, technician, or enucleator removing the
part knows of the revocation.
(e) A failure to make a decision as to an anatomical gift under paragraph (a) is not an
objection to the making of an anatomical gift.
History: 1991 c 202 s 29; 1998 c 399 s 36; 2005 c 10 art 4 s 23

525.9213 AUTHORIZATION BY CORONER OR MEDICAL EXAMINER OR LOCAL
PUBLIC HEALTH OFFICIAL.
(a) The coroner or medical examiner may release and permit the removal of a part from a
body within that official's custody, for transplantation or therapy, if:
(1) the official has received a request for the part from a hospital, physician, surgeon, or
procurement organization;
(2) the official has made a reasonable effort, taking into account the useful life of the part, to
locate and examine the decedent's medical records and inform persons listed in section 525.9212,
paragraph (a) , of their option to make, or object to making, an anatomical gift;
(3) the official does not know of a refusal or contrary indication by the decedent or objection
by a person having priority to act as listed in section 525.9212, paragraph (a);
(4) the removal will be by a physician, surgeon, or technician; but in the case of eyes, by one
of them or by an enucleator;
(5) the removal will not interfere with any autopsy or investigation; and
(6) the removal will be in accordance with accepted medical standards.
(b) If the body is not within the custody of the coroner or medical examiner, the local public
health officer may release and permit the removal of any part from a body in the local public
health officer's custody for transplantation or therapy if the requirements of paragraph (a) are met.
(c) An official releasing and permitting the removal of a part shall maintain a permanent
record of the name of the decedent, the person making the request, the date and purpose of the
request, the part requested, and the person to whom it was released.
History: 1991 c 202 s 30

525.9214 ROUTINE INQUIRY AND REQUIRED REQUEST; SEARCH AND
NOTIFICATION.
(a) If, at or near the time of death of a patient, there is no documentation in the medical
record that the patient has made or refused to make an anatomical gift, the hospital administrator
or a representative designated by the administrator shall discuss with the patient or a relative of
the patient the option to make or refuse to make an anatomical gift and may request the making
of an anatomical gift pursuant to section 525.9211 or 525.9212. The request must be made with
reasonable discretion and sensitivity to the circumstances of the family. A request is not required
if the gift is not suitable, based upon accepted medical standards, for a purpose specified in
section 525.9215. An entry must be made in the medical record of the patient, stating the name
of the individual making the request, and the name, response, and relationship to the patient of
the person to whom the request was made.
(b) The following persons shall make a reasonable search for a document of gift or other
information identifying the bearer as a donor or as an individual who has refused to make an
anatomical gift:
(1) a law enforcement officer, firefighter, paramedic, or other emergency rescuer finding an
individual who the searcher believes is dead or near death;
(2) a hospital or emergency care facility, upon the admission or presentation of an individual
at or near the time of death, if there is not immediately available any other source of that
information; and
(3) a medical examiner or coroner upon receipt of a body.
(c) If a document of gift or evidence of refusal to make an anatomical gift is located by the
search required by paragraph (b), clause (1), and the individual or body to whom it relates is taken
to a hospital, the hospital must be notified of the contents and the document or other evidence
must be sent to the hospital. If a body is taken to a morgue, the person who discovered the body
must notify the person's dispatcher. A dispatcher notified under this section must notify the
state's federally designated organ procurement organization and inform the organization of the
deceased's name, donor status, and location.
(d) If, at or near the time of death of a patient, a hospital knows that an anatomical gift has
been made pursuant to section 525.9212, paragraph (a), or a release and removal of a part has
been permitted pursuant to section 525.9213, or that a patient or an individual identified as in
transit to the hospital is a donor, the hospital shall notify the donee if one is named and known to
the hospital; if not, it shall notify an appropriate procurement organization. The hospital shall
cooperate in the implementation of the anatomical gift or release and removal of a part.
(e) A person who fails to discharge the duties imposed by this section is not subject to
criminal or civil liability.
History: 1991 c 202 s 31; 2006 c 260 art 3 s 22

525.9215 PERSONS WHO MAY BECOME DONEES; PURPOSES FOR WHICH
ANATOMICAL GIFTS MAY BE MADE.
(a) The following persons may become donees of anatomical gifts for the purposes stated:
(1) a hospital, nonprofit organization in medical education and research, physician, surgeon,
or procurement organization, for transplantation, therapy, medical or dental education, research,
or advancement of medical or dental science;
(2) an accredited medical or dental school, college, or university for education, research,
advancement of medical or dental science;
(3) an approved chiropractic college for education; or
(4) a designated individual for transplantation or therapy needed by that individual.
(b) An anatomical gift may be made to a designated donee or without designating a donee.
If a donee is not designated or if the donee is not available or rejects the anatomical gift, the
anatomical gift may be accepted by any hospital or procurement organization.
(c) If the donee knows of the decedent's refusal or contrary indications to make an anatomical
gift or that an anatomical gift by a member of a class having priority to act is opposed by a
member of the same class or a prior class under section 525.9212, paragraph (a), the donee
may not accept the anatomical gift.
History: 1991 c 202 s 32

525.9216 DELIVERY OF DOCUMENT OF GIFT.
(a) Delivery of a document of gift during the donor's lifetime is not required for the validity
of an anatomical gift.
(b) If an anatomical gift is made to a designated donee, the document of gift, or a copy, may
be delivered to the donee to expedite the appropriate procedures after death. The document of
gift, or a copy, may be deposited in any hospital, procurement organization, or registry office that
accepts it for safekeeping or for facilitation of procedures after death. On request of an interested
person, upon or after the donor's death, the person in possession shall allow the interested person
to examine or copy the document of gift.
History: 1991 c 202 s 33

525.9217 RIGHTS AND DUTIES AT DEATH.
(a) Rights of a donee created by an anatomical gift are superior to rights of others except
with respect to autopsies under section 525.9221, paragraph (b). A donee may accept or reject
an anatomical gift. If a donee accepts an anatomical gift of an entire body, the donee, subject to
the terms of the gift, may allow embalming and use of the body in funeral services. If the gift is
of a part of a body, the donee, upon the death of the donor and before embalming, shall cause
the part to be removed without unnecessary mutilation. After removal of the part, custody of the
remainder of the body vests in the person under obligation to dispose of the body.
(b) The time of death must be determined by a physician or surgeon who attends the donor
at death or, if none, the physician or surgeon who certifies the death. Neither the physician or
surgeon who attends the donor at death nor the physician or surgeon who determines the time of
death may participate in the procedures for removing or transplanting a part unless the document
of gift designates a particular physician or surgeon pursuant to section 525.9211, paragraph (d).
(c) If there has been an anatomical gift, a technician may remove any donated parts and an
enucleator may remove any donated eyes or parts of eyes, after determination of death by a
physician or surgeon.
History: 1991 c 202 s 34

525.9218 COORDINATION OF PROCUREMENT AND USE.
The procurement organizations, after consultation with hospitals, shall establish agreements
or affiliations for coordination of procurement and use of human bodies and parts.
History: 1991 c 202 s 35

525.9219 SALE OR PURCHASE OF PARTS PROHIBITED.
(a) A person may not knowingly, for valuable consideration, purchase or sell a part for
transplantation or therapy, if removal of the part is intended to occur after the death of the
decedent.
(b) Valuable consideration does not include reasonable payment for the removal, processing,
disposal, preservation, quality control, storage, transportation, or implantation of a part.
(c) A person who violates this section is guilty of a felony and upon conviction is subject to a
fine not exceeding $50,000 or imprisonment not exceeding five years, or both.
History: 1991 c 202 s 36

525.922 [Repealed, 1991 c 202 s 42]

525.9221 EXAMINATION, AUTOPSY, APPLICABLE LAW, LIABILITY.
(a) An anatomical gift authorizes any reasonable examination necessary to assure medical
acceptability of the gift for the purposes intended.
(b) The provisions of sections 525.921 to 525.9224 are subject to the laws of this state
governing autopsies.
(c) A hospital, physician, surgeon, coroner, medical examiner, local public health officer,
enucleator, technician, or other person, who acts in accordance with sections 525.921 to 525.9224
or with the applicable anatomical gift law of another state or a foreign country or attempts in good
faith to do so is not liable for that act in a civil action or criminal proceeding.
(d) An individual who makes an anatomical gift pursuant to section 525.9211 or 525.9212,
and the individual's estate are not liable for any injury or damage that may result from the making
or the use of the anatomical gift.
(e) The provision or use of any part of a human body, including blood, blood components,
bone marrow, or solid organs from living donors, for the purpose of injection, transfusion,
or transplantation in the human body is the rendition of a health care service by each person
participating in the provision or use and is not a sale of goods, as that term is defined in section
336.2-105, paragraph (1), or a sale of a product.
History: 1991 c 202 s 37; 1993 c 13 art 1 s 46; 1993 c 256 s 1

525.9222 TRANSITIONAL PROVISIONS.
Sections 525.921 to 525.9224 apply to a document of gift, revocation, or refusal to make
an anatomical gift signed by the donor or a person authorized to make or object to making an
anatomical gift before, on, or after the effective date of sections 525.921 to 525.9224.
History: 1991 c 202 s 38

525.9223 UNIFORMITY OF APPLICATION AND CONSTRUCTION.
Sections 525.921 to 525.9224 shall be applied and construed to effectuate their general
purpose to make uniform the law with respect to the subject of sections 525.921 to 525.9224
among states enacting it.
History: 1991 c 202 s 39

525.9224 SHORT TITLE.
Sections 525.921 to 525.9224 may be cited as the "Uniform Anatomical Gift Act (1987)."
History: 1991 c 202 s 40

525.923 [Repealed, 1991 c 202 s 42]

525.924 [Repealed, 1991 c 202 s 42]

525.925 [Repealed, 1991 c 202 s 42]

525.926 [Repealed, 1991 c 202 s 42]

525.927 [Repealed, 1991 c 202 s 42]

525.928 [Repealed, 1991 c 202 s 42]

525.929 [Repealed, 1991 c 202 s 42]

525.93 [Repealed, 1991 c 202 s 42]

525.94 [Repealed, 1991 c 202 s 42]

525.95 FIDUCIARY POWERS, SUSPENSION DURING WAR SERVICE.
    Subdivision 1. Definitions. The definitions in this subdivision apply to this section.
(a) "War service" includes the following, during a period when the United States is engaged
in war or other major military engagement with a foreign nation:
(1) active membership in the military forces of the United States or any of its allies;
(2) acceptance for membership in the military forces of the United States or any of its
allies and awaiting induction into that service;
(3) participation in work abroad in connection with a governmental agency of the United
States or any of its allies, with the Red Cross, or with a similar service;
(4) internment by an enemy or absence from the United States and inability to return; and
(5) service arising out of or in connection with the war or other major military engagement,
which in the opinion of the court prevents the fiduciary from giving the proper attention to duties.
(b) "Fiduciary" refers to a trustee of a testamentary trust or of an express trust, a guardian of
a person or conservator of a person's estate, an executor of a will, an administrator of the estate of
the decedent, a custodian under the Minnesota Uniform Transfers to Minors Act, or an advisor or
consultant in a testamentary or express trust.
    Subd. 2. Powers of fiduciary may be suspended; petition. A fiduciary who contemplates
entering war service, a fiduciary who is engaged in war service, a cofiduciary, or an interested
person may petition the proper court having jurisdiction in matters of that nature for the suspension
of the powers and duties of the fiduciary during the period of war service and until the further order
of the court, and may petition for the reinstatement of the fiduciary upon the fiduciary's return.
    Subd. 3. Notice of hearing. Notice of the hearing on a petition under subdivision 2 must be
given to persons and in the manner the court directs.
    Subd. 4. Hearing; order. After a hearing on a petition under subdivision 2 or in the case of
an executor, administrator, or guardian on the court's own motion, the court may:
(1) order the suspension of the powers and duties of the fiduciary who is in war service for
the period of the war service and until the further order of the court;
(2) appoint a successor fiduciary to serve for the period of suspension of the powers and
duties of the fiduciary and until the further order of the court, if upon suspension of powers and
duties, there is no fiduciary to exercise the powers and duties of the fiduciary who is in war
service, or if in the opinion of the court the appointment of a cofiduciary is advisable;
(3) decree that the ownership and title to the trust property vests in the successor fiduciary
or cofiduciary, as the case may be, and that the duties, powers, and discretions, or those of the
powers and discretions that are not personal to the fiduciary, may be exercised by the cofiduciary
or successor fiduciary;
(4) make other orders the court considers advisable with respect to the trust estate or its
administration, and authorize a reasonable compensation to the successor fiduciary; or
(5) reserve jurisdiction for the entry of further orders and for the reinstatement of the
fiduciary.
Upon petition, the court shall order the reinstatement of the fiduciary when the fiduciary's
war service has terminated if it appears that the trust is not fully executed or administration of
the estate is not completed.
    Subd. 5. Responsibility of fiduciary. The fiduciary has no responsibility for the acts and
doings of the cofiduciary or successor fiduciary during the period of the suspension of the
fiduciary's powers and duties, but is not relieved of responsibility for the fiduciary's own acts or
doings in the administration of the trust fund or estate. A successor fiduciary appointed under this
section is not responsible for the acts of the predecessor fiduciary.
History: 1989 c 340 art 1 s 75; 2005 c 10 art 4 s 24