How probate works

[Rachan M.]

I met someone today who was venting about the probate process. She went through it a few years ago when her mom passed away, and has to do something every 3 years to "maintain it". What does "maintaining" mean? Just trying to understand how the process works.

[Tom Gimer]

In DC the personal representative’s appointment is automatically terminated on the 3rd anniversary of the appointment… unless extended by written request for additional 12 month periods. Why would there be a need to extend? Administration of the estate has not yet been completed… still claims being litigated or assets being marshaled and sold.