In regards to probate law, Stow proposed a bill to the legislature of California in 1876 stating that the widow of a spouse would be granted control over their property and putting their affairs in order. Stow also met with attorney Belva Lockwood in Washington, D.C., and together they came up with a bill to reform federal marital property and estate laws; they brought it to the House of Representatives in 1879, but it was brushed aside.
In probate law, Stow proposed a bill in California in 1876 that would give widows control over their deceased spouse's property and affairs. He also collaborated with attorney Belva Lockwood in Washington D.C., to create legislation reforming federal marital property and estate laws. They presented this proposal to the House of Representatives in 1879, but it was ultimately rejected.