De Bonis Non Administrates: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition

Definition & meaning

The term "de bonis non administrates" refers to assets that have not been managed or distributed after the death of an estate owner or the removal of an estate administrator. It is a legal concept that applies when an estate remains partially unresolved. When a new administrator is appointed to take over these unadministered assets, they are said to be granted "administration de bonis non," meaning they will handle the goods that have not yet been administered.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: After the death of John Smith, his estate was partially settled, but the previous administrator failed to distribute all assets. A new administrator is appointed to manage the remaining assets, thus taking on the role of administrator de bonis non.

Example 2: In a situation where an estate was closed but new debts arise, a court may appoint an administrator de bonis non to address these financial obligations and manage any remaining assets. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Key Differences
California Allows for a simplified process for appointing an administrator de bonis non under certain conditions.
New York Requires specific forms to be filed in probate court to appoint an administrator de bonis non.
Texas Has different thresholds for when an administrator de bonis non can be appointed, often requiring additional documentation.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Administrator A person appointed to manage an estate. An administrator de bonis non specifically handles unadministered assets.
Executor A person designated in a will to administer the estate. An executor manages the estate as per the will, while an administrator de bonis non manages unadministered assets regardless of a will.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself needing to appoint an administrator de bonis non, consider the following steps:

  • Gather all relevant documents related to the estate.
  • Consult with a legal professional to understand the specific requirements in your state.
  • Explore legal form templates from US Legal Forms to facilitate the appointment process.
  • If the situation is complex, seek professional legal assistance to ensure compliance with all legal obligations.

Quick facts

  • Typical fees: Varies by state and complexity of the estate.
  • Jurisdiction: Probate courts in the state where the deceased resided.
  • Possible penalties: Mismanagement of the estate can lead to legal consequences for the administrator.

Key takeaways

FAQs

It means "of the goods not administered," referring to assets that have not been managed in an estate.