Probate. When a person dies all of their property goes into a probate proceeding. Probate itemizes all the assets of the decedent, resolves all the debts; pays the taxes and distributes the assets. These functions are handled by the executor of the will, who is usually named in the will and confirmed by the court.
The DEFENSE OF MARRIAGE ACT (DOMA) is a Federal law enacted on September 21, 1996 by then President Bill Clinton. The law essentially leaves it up to the States to decide whether to recognize a same-sex marriage performed in another State that permits such actions.
On February 13, 2012, Governor Christine Gregoire signed SB 6239 to legalize same-sex marriage in Washington State. Meanwhile, opponents have promised to gather enough signatures to force a referendum on the law. Effective Date. The bill, commonly called the Marriage Equality Act, is set to become effective on June 7, 2012.