Legal Vocab

1. What is the Statute of Limitations (SOL)?

A statute of limitations, known in civil law systems as a prescriptive period, is a law passed by a legislative body to set the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. Deceased SOL Map below:

2. What is an Executor of Estate (EOE)?

An executor of an estate, also known as a personal representative, is appointed to carry out a deceased person's wishes specified in their will. They manage and protect the estate's financial assets, which is why many name family members, close friends, accountants or lawyers to act as executors.

3. If there is not an appointed Executor of Estate (EOE), what is the order of next of kin?

  1. Spouse
  2. Children (in order oldest to youngest living)
  3. Parents 
  4. Siblings. 
  5. State law varies but, generally, further next of kin include: Grandchildren and Grandparents

4. Cause of Death (COD) on Death Certificate 

In law, medicine, and statistics, cause of death is an official determination of the conditions resulting in a human’s death, which may be recorded on a death certificate. A cause of death is determined by a medical examiner. 

5. Date of Death (DOD)

The date on which the person died.

6. What is a Power of Attorney (POA)?

A power of attorney or letter of attorney is a written authorization to represent or act on a living person’s behalf in private affairs, business, or some other legal matter.

7. What is a Legal Guardian?

A legal guardian is a person who has been appointed by a court or otherwise has the legal authority to make decisions relevant to the personal and property interests of another person who is deemed incompetent, called a ward.

8. Letters of Withdraw/ Dismissal/ Rejection

Tells the court and the parties that the attorney is no longer representing a party in the case.