SB 984 Summary

• Repeals and amends statutory language throughout probate court procedures, standardizing terminology to refer to "Probate Court" and "Probate Courts" instead of "Court of Probate" and "courts of probate."

• Modifies probate court financial reporting requirements to allow fiduciaries to submit financial reports in lieu of formal accounts when permitted by rules of procedure adopted under section 45a-78, with court approval allowing release of fiduciaries and sureties from liability.

• Establishes new appeal procedures for probate court decisions, requiring appellants to mail copies of complaints to the Probate Court and serve interested parties within specified timeframes, with appeals heard by Superior Court or referred to special assignment probate judges except in specified matters.

• Increases the threshold for small trust termination from $100,000 to $150,000 in current market value, and permits parents or guardians to file involuntary representation applications for minors up to 180 days before the child reaches age 18.

• Expands estate examiner authority to investigate potential causes of action and eligibility for benefits, applies civil evidence rules and oath requirements to conservatorship hearings, and establishes procedures for conservators placing persons in long-term care facilities with court approval and less restrictive alternatives.