(1) Subject to RCW 11.54.030, the surviving spouse of a decedent may petition the court for an award from the property of the decedent. If the decedent is survived by children of the decedent who are not also the children of the surviving spouse, on petition of such a child the court may divide the award between the surviving spouse and all or any of such children as it deems appropriate. If there is not a surviving spouse, the minor children of the decedent may petition for an award.

     (2) The award may be made from either the community property or separate property of the decedent. Unless otherwise ordered by the court, the probate and nonprobate assets of the decedent abate in accordance with chapter 11.10 RCW in satisfaction of the award.

     (3) The award may be made whether or not probate proceedings have been commenced in the state of Washington. The court may not make this award unless the petition for the award is filed before the earliest of:

     (a) Eighteen months from the date of the decedent's death if within twelve months of the decedent's death either:

     (i) A personal representative has been appointed; or

     (ii) A notice agent has filed a declaration and oath as required in RCW 11.42.010(3)(a)(ii); or

     (b) The termination of any probate proceeding for the decedent's estate that has been commenced in the state of Washington; or

     (c) Six years from the date of the death of the decedent.

[1997 c 252 § 48.]

NOTES:

     Application -- 1997 c 252 §§ 1-73: See note following RCW 11.02.005.