Opinion ID: 879394
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Per Capita and Representation

Text: Mary Ann Frankovich and the remaining claimants listed in paragraph F above are related to the decedent in the fifth degree of kindred. On appeal, their counsel argues that under § 72-2-203, MCA, a proper interpretation requires a distribution of the intestate estate to all next of kin by representation and that such representation is provided for in § 72-2-204, MCA. Counsel further argue from the official comments to the Uniform Probate Code under § 72-2-203, MCA, which stated that in general the principle of representation is adopted as the pattern which most decedents would prefer. Montana Code Annotated, Part 2, Vol. 6, at 20 (1986). First, representation is not allowed unless it is called for by this code § 72-2-204, MCA, and representation is not called for in subdivisions (2) or (4) of § 72-2-203, MCA. Moreover, the term next of kin in subdivision (4) of § 72-2-203 is limited by the following language in equal degree. We interpret that language to mean that in cases where subdivision (4) applies, the intestate estate goes to the next of kin, per capita if necessary, in the nearest equal degree. That interpretation is in accord with many of the states, and further in accord with Official Comments respecting the reasons for the intestate provisions: the intestacy rule attempts to reflect the normal desire of the owner of wealth as to the disposition of his property at death and so the prevailing patterns of wills were looked to in framing the statutory provisions; in addition intestacy rules and procedures give persons of modest means an effective and not prohibitorily expensive estate plan provided by law. Montana Code Annotated, Part 2, Vol. 6, at 18 (1986). Similarly, briefs filed in behalf of the claimants in paragraph D above, related in the fourth degree, and paragraph E, related in the fifth degree, and those on behalf of the sixth degree relatives contend for distribution by right of representation, and also join in the quarter blood argument which we have discussed above. What we have said foregoing is adequate to meet their contentions. IV