Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2003
Abstract
In this Article, Professor Waggoner proposes reforms to the Uniform Probate Code's (UPC) treatment of the elective share of the surviving spouse. First, the Article recommends that the UPC adopt a form of presentation that more transparently reflects the normative theories and empirical assumptions underlying the UPC's elective share framework. Second, the Article presents demographic data suggesting that the UPC's current elective share approximation schedule may be inappropriatef or a sizable faction of married couples, those remarryingf ollowing widowhood. Finally, the Article proposes two substantive revisions to the UPC's election share framework-the first proposal is to lengthen the approximation schedule; the second is to offer enacting states a deferred community property alternative.
Recommended Citation
Waggoner, Lawrence W. "The Uniform Probate Code's Elective Share: Time for a Reassessment." U. Mich. J. L. Reform 37, no. 1 (2003): 1-37.