{ "$schema": "https://json-schema.org/draft/2020-12/schema", "$id": "https://openinherit.org/v3/estate.json", "title": "Estate", "description": "The root estate record — will, intestacy, or trust-based succession plan. Contains testator details, jurisdiction, will formalities, forced heirship, probate grants, death record, multi-jurisdiction administration, and tax treaty positions", "type": "object", "required": [ "id", "testatorPersonId", "status", "domicile", "createdAt", "lastModifiedAt" ], "propertyNames": { "pattern": "^(x-inherit-[a-z][a-z0-9-]*|[a-z][a-zA-Z0-9]*)$" }, "properties": { "id": { "description": "Unique identifier for this estate record", "examples": [ "b2c3d4e5-f6a7-8901-bcde-f12345678901" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "testatorPersonId": { "description": "Reference to the Person.id of the testator (the person whose estate this is)", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "testatorPersonIdDisplay": { "description": "Human-readable display name for the referenced testator person", "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "status": { "description": "The lifecycle status of this estate record. Progresses from planning through to closure", "$comment": "planning: estate plan is being prepared, not yet finalised. confirmed: estate plan is signed and in effect — the will has been executed. pre_probate: testator has died, estate is being gathered before applying for probate/grant. in_administration: grant obtained, estate is being administered — collecting assets, paying debts, distributing. distributed: all assets distributed to beneficiaries, final accounts pending. closed: estate administration is complete — all accounts filed, all distributions confirmed.", "examples": [ "planning", "confirmed", "in_administration" ], "default": "planning", "enum": [ "planning", "confirmed", "pre_probate", "in_administration", "distributed", "closed" ] }, "domicile": { "description": "The testator's domicile — the jurisdiction whose succession law governs moveable property by default. For cross-border estates, individual assets may declare their own applicableLaw", "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "willType": { "description": "The type of will. Extension types use x-inherit- prefix", "$comment": "secular: standard civil will. religious: will governed by religious law. dual: separate secular and religious components. composite: single document blending secular and religious provisions. oral_witnessed: oral will with witnesses. oral_customary: oral will under customary law. holographic: entirely handwritten. notarised: executed before a notary. privileged_will: military/mariner's will with relaxed formalities.", "anyOf": [ { "enum": [ "secular", "religious", "dual", "composite", "oral_witnessed", "oral_customary", "holographic", "notarised", "privileged_will" ] }, { "type": "string", "pattern": "^x-inherit-.+$" } ] }, "companionEstateId": { "description": "Links to a companion estate record — either a parallel estate under a different legal system, or a household companion's estate", "$comment": "For dual-system estates — links secular and religious estate records. Also used for companion (household/couples) estates.", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "mirrorWillId": { "description": "Reference to the companion estate's id when this will was created as a mirror of the companion's will. Mirror wills have substantially the same provisions — typically leaving everything to each other and then to shared beneficiaries. This field records the intent, not a guarantee that the wills remain identical (either partner may subsequently diverge)", "$comment": "Set automatically when a mirror will template is used. Either partner may later modify their will independently — divergence is expected and should be flagged by implementations as an inconsistency worth reviewing, not an error.", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "companionLinkStatus": { "description": "Current state of the companion estate link. Absent if the estate has never been linked to a companion", "$comment": "Lifecycle: invited → active → decoupling → decoupled. See docs/companion-estates.md for full semantics.", "examples": [ "active", "decoupled" ], "enum": [ "invited", "active", "decoupling", "decoupled" ] }, "linkedAt": { "description": "ISO 8601 timestamp when the companion link became active", "examples": [ "2026-03-15T10:00:00Z" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}T\\d{2}:\\d{2}:\\d{2}", "format": "date-time" }, "decoupledAt": { "description": "ISO 8601 timestamp when the companion link was severed", "examples": [ "2026-09-01T16:00:00Z" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}T\\d{2}:\\d{2}:\\d{2}", "format": "date-time" }, "primaryInstrument": { "description": "The primary instrument governing succession for this estate", "$comment": "will: estate passes primarily through the will. revocable_trust: estate passes through a revocable (living) trust — common in US estate planning. both: combination of will and trust. intestacy: no will exists — estate distributes under intestacy rules.", "examples": [ "will", "intestacy" ], "enum": [ "will", "revocable_trust", "both", "intestacy" ] }, "defaultPropertyRegime": { "description": "The default marital property regime for this estate. Determines which assets the testator may freely dispose of", "$comment": "community_property: assets acquired during marriage are jointly owned 50/50 (US community property states, France, Spain). separate_property: each spouse owns what they acquire (England and Wales, most common law). equitable_distribution: court divides property fairly on divorce/death (most US states on divorce). deferred_community: assets are separate during marriage but shared on dissolution (Scandinavia, Germany). universal_community: all assets are joint from marriage (Netherlands pre-2018, some Indonesian adat). participation_in_acquisitions: Swiss regime — separate during marriage, share gains on dissolution. islamic_dower: mahr-based system — property is separate, wife has deferred mahr claim.", "examples": [ "separate_property", "community_property" ], "enum": [ "community_property", "separate_property", "equitable_distribution", "deferred_community", "universal_community", "participation_in_acquisitions", "islamic_dower" ] }, "totalEstimatedValue": { "description": "Estimated total value of the estate before liabilities. In minor currency units", "$ref": "common/money.json" }, "attestation": { "description": "Will execution formalities — witnesses, signing method, and compliance checks", "$ref": "attestation.json" }, "testamentaryCapacity": { "description": "Record of testamentary capacity assessment for the testator", "$ref": "#/$defs/TestamentaryCapacity" }, "codicils": { "description": "Amendments to the will. Each codicil must be executed with proper formalities", "type": "array", "maxItems": 100, "items": { "$ref": "#/$defs/Codicil" } }, "revokesDocumentIds": { "description": "Document IDs of prior wills or instruments this estate record expressly revokes", "examples": [ [ "c3d4e5f6-a7b8-9012-cdef-123456789012" ] ], "type": "array", "maxItems": 100, "uniqueItems": true, "items": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" } }, "revocationClause": { "description": "Whether the will contains a general revocation clause ('I revoke all former wills and testamentary dispositions')", "examples": [ true ], "type": "boolean" }, "forcedHeirship": { "description": "Forced heirship regime applicable to this estate, if any", "$ref": "#/$defs/ForcedHeirship" }, "adjudicatingBodies": { "description": "Courts and bodies with jurisdiction over this estate. Plural legal systems may involve multiple courts", "type": "array", "maxItems": 100, "items": { "$ref": "#/$defs/AdjudicatingBody" } }, "parallelDistributions": { "description": "Parallel distribution schemes under different legal systems — customary, religious, or statutory", "type": "array", "maxItems": 100, "items": { "$ref": "#/$defs/ParallelDistribution" } }, "probateGrant": { "description": "The probate grant or letters of administration for this estate", "$ref": "#/$defs/ProbateGrant" }, "deathRecord": { "description": "Details of the testator's death", "$ref": "#/$defs/DeathRecord" }, "successionConflicts": { "description": "Known conflicts between legal systems regarding succession for this estate", "type": "array", "maxItems": 100, "items": { "$ref": "#/$defs/SuccessionConflict" } }, "choiceOfLaw": { "description": "Choice of law declaration under the Brussels IV Regulation (EU Succession Regulation 650/2012) or equivalent. Allows the testator to choose which jurisdiction's succession law applies", "$comment": "Brussels IV Regulation choice of law. Allows EU nationals to choose their nationality's law for succession.", "type": "object", "properties": { "chosenLaw": { "description": "The jurisdiction whose law the testator has chosen to govern succession", "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "basis": { "description": "Legal basis for the choice of law", "examples": [ "Brussels IV Regulation Art. 22 — nationality at time of choice", "Hague Convention on the Law Applicable to Succession" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "documentRef": { "description": "Reference to the document containing the choice of law declaration", "examples": [ "DOC-2024-COL-001" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "electiveShareRight": { "description": "Surviving spouse's elective share right (US). Allows the spouse to claim a statutory share of the estate regardless of the will's provisions", "$comment": "US — surviving spouse's right to elect against the will.", "type": "object", "properties": { "available": { "description": "Whether elective share is available in this jurisdiction", "examples": [ true ], "type": "boolean" }, "electedAmount": { "description": "The amount elected by the surviving spouse, if the election has been made", "$ref": "common/money.json" }, "statute": { "description": "The statute governing elective share in this jurisdiction", "examples": [ "Uniform Probate Code §2-202", "New York EPTL §5-1.1-A" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "notes": { "description": "Additional notes on the elective share", "examples": [ "Augmented estate calculation includes revocable trust assets" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "priorMatrimonialClaim": { "description": "A prior matrimonial claim against the estate — typically from a former spouse under a financial order", "type": "object", "properties": { "exists": { "description": "Whether a prior matrimonial claim exists", "examples": [ true ], "type": "boolean" }, "description": { "description": "Description of the claim", "examples": [ "Former wife has lump sum order of £50,000 outstanding from 2018 divorce" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 }, "claimantPersonId": { "description": "Reference to the Person.id of the claimant", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "claimantPersonIdDisplay": { "description": "Human-readable display name for the referenced claimant person", "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "notes": { "description": "Additional context", "examples": [ "Clean break order obtained — no further claims" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "noContestClause": { "description": "In terrorem (no-contest) clause — a provision that a beneficiary forfeits their gift if they challenge the will. Enforceability varies by jurisdiction", "$comment": "In terrorem clause — beneficiary forfeits gift if they challenge the will.", "type": "object", "properties": { "present": { "description": "Whether the will contains a no-contest clause", "examples": [ true ], "type": "boolean" }, "enforceability": { "description": "Enforceability status in the governing jurisdiction", "examples": [ "Enforceable in Florida", "Generally unenforceable in England and Wales", "Enforceable unless probable cause exists (California)" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "notes": { "description": "Additional context about the clause", "examples": [ "Clause includes safe harbour for challenges brought in good faith" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "pretermittedHeirClaims": { "description": "Claims by pretermitted heirs — children born or adopted after the will was executed who are not mentioned in it", "$comment": "Claims by children born/adopted after the will was made.", "type": "array", "maxItems": 100, "items": { "type": "object", "properties": { "claimantPersonId": { "description": "Reference to the Person.id of the pretermitted heir", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "claimantPersonIdDisplay": { "description": "Human-readable display name for the referenced claimant person", "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "status": { "description": "Current status of this claim", "examples": [ "pending", "settled", "dismissed", "intestate share awarded" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 100 }, "notes": { "description": "Additional context about the claim", "examples": [ "Child born 2023, will executed 2020 — no mention in will or codicil" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "testamentaryPromises": { "description": "Claims under the Law Reform (Testamentary Promises) Act 1949 (New Zealand). Allows claims by persons who provided services to the deceased in reliance on a promise of testamentary provision", "$comment": "NZ — claims under the Law Reform (Testamentary Promises) Act 1949.", "type": "array", "maxItems": 100, "items": { "type": "object", "properties": { "claimantPersonId": { "description": "Reference to the Person.id of the claimant", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "claimantPersonIdDisplay": { "description": "Human-readable display name for the referenced claimant person", "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "promiseDescription": { "description": "Description of the promise made by the testator", "examples": [ "Promised to leave the farm to nephew in return for 10 years of farm management" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 }, "status": { "description": "Current status of this claim", "examples": [ "pending", "claim filed", "settled", "dismissed" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 100 }, "notes": { "description": "Additional context", "examples": [ "Multiple witnesses to the promise — strong claim" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "judicialVariationPower": { "description": "Court power to vary a will to make reasonable financial provision for family and dependants. Applies in England and Wales (Inheritance Act 1975), New Zealand, and similar jurisdictions", "$comment": "UK/NZ — court power to vary a will under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 or equivalent.", "type": "object", "properties": { "available": { "description": "Whether judicial variation is available in this jurisdiction", "examples": [ true ], "type": "boolean" }, "statute": { "description": "The statute granting variation power", "examples": [ "Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975", "Family Protection Act 1955 (NZ)" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "notes": { "description": "Additional context", "examples": [ "Claim must be brought within 6 months of grant of representation" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "commorientesRule": { "description": "Commorientes rule — the legal presumption for order of death when two or more people die in the same event. Critical for determining which estate inherits from which", "$comment": "Rule determining order of death when people die in the same event. Varies by jurisdiction.", "type": "object", "properties": { "applicable": { "description": "Whether the commorientes rule is relevant to this estate", "examples": [ true ], "type": "boolean" }, "rule": { "description": "The applicable commorientes rule", "examples": [ "s.184 Law of Property Act 1925 — deaths presumed in order of seniority", "Uniform Simultaneous Death Act — treated as if each predeceased the other" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "jurisdiction": { "description": "Jurisdiction whose commorientes rule applies", "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "notes": { "description": "Additional context — e.g. specific facts of the case", "examples": [ "Husband (72) and wife (68) died in same road traffic accident" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 }, "affectedPersonIds": { "description": "Person IDs of those who died in the same event", "type": "array", "items": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" } }, "provedSurvivalOrder": { "description": "Person IDs in proved order of death, if established by evidence. First ID died first", "type": [ "array", "null" ], "items": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" } }, "statute": { "description": "The governing statute for commorientes in this jurisdiction", "examples": [ "Law of Property Act 1925 s.184" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "ancillaryProbate": { "description": "Ancillary probate proceedings in jurisdictions other than the primary domiciliary jurisdiction. Required when the estate includes assets in foreign jurisdictions", "$comment": "Multi-jurisdiction estate administration. Each entry represents one jurisdiction's administration.", "type": "array", "maxItems": 100, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "jurisdiction" ], "properties": { "jurisdiction": { "description": "The jurisdiction where ancillary probate is needed", "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "fiduciaryPersonId": { "description": "Reference to the Person.id of the local fiduciary or administrator", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "fiduciaryPersonIdDisplay": { "description": "Human-readable display name for the referenced fiduciary person", "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "status": { "description": "Current status of ancillary probate in this jurisdiction", "$comment": "not_started: ancillary probate has not yet been initiated. applied: application has been submitted. granted: grant has been issued. completed: administration in this jurisdiction is finished. waived: ancillary probate is not required (e.g. small estate exemption).", "enum": [ "not_started", "applied", "granted", "completed", "waived" ] }, "grantReference": { "description": "Local grant reference number", "examples": [ "ANC-2025-FR-001" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "localCounsel": { "description": "Name of local legal counsel handling this jurisdiction", "examples": [ "Maître Dupont, Paris", "Tanaka & Associates, Tokyo", "Okonkwo & Partners, Lagos", "Sharma Legal, Mumbai", "Al-Tamimi & Company, Dubai" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "notes": { "description": "Additional notes", "examples": [ "French notaire requires apostilled UK grant" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "registrations": { "description": "Registrations of the will with official will registries. Not all jurisdictions have will registries, and registration is rarely compulsory", "$comment": "Will registries worldwide (DIFC Wills Service Centre, UK Probate Registry, etc.).", "type": "array", "maxItems": 100, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "registry" ], "properties": { "registry": { "description": "Name of the will registry", "examples": [ "Certainty National Will Register", "DIFC Wills Service Centre", "Japan Legal Affairs Bureau" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255, "minLength": 1 }, "registrationNumber": { "description": "Registration reference number", "examples": [ "CNWR-2024-123456", "DIFC-W-2024-0789" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "jurisdictionScope": { "description": "What the registration covers — may be limited to certain jurisdictions or asset classes", "examples": [ "England and Wales only", "DIFC-registered assets only", "Worldwide" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "registrationDate": { "description": "Date the will was registered", "examples": [ "2024-07-01" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "reportingCurrency": { "description": "The currency used for probate reporting and estate accounts. All values in this estate may need converting to this currency", "$comment": "ISO 4217 currency for probate reporting.", "examples": [ "GBP", "USD", "EUR" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^[A-Z]{3}$" }, "conversionRates": { "description": "Exchange rates used when converting foreign-currency assets to the reporting currency. Document the rate and date to satisfy probate courts", "$comment": "Exchange rates used for estate valuation in cross-border estates.", "type": "array", "maxItems": 20, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "fromCurrency", "toCurrency", "rate", "rateDate" ], "properties": { "fromCurrency": { "description": "Source currency code (ISO 4217)", "examples": [ "EUR", "JPY" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^[A-Z]{3}$" }, "toCurrency": { "description": "Target currency code (ISO 4217)", "examples": [ "GBP", "USD" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^[A-Z]{3}$" }, "rate": { "description": "Exchange rate — one unit of fromCurrency equals this many units of toCurrency", "examples": [ 0.86, 0.0054 ], "type": "number", "exclusiveMinimum": 0 }, "rateDate": { "description": "Date this exchange rate was sourced", "examples": [ "2025-09-30" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "source": { "description": "Source of the exchange rate", "examples": [ "Bank of England daily rate", "HMRC monthly rate", "XE.com" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "taxTreatyPositions": { "description": "Tax treaty positions relevant to the estate. Documents which treaties are being relied upon for double taxation relief", "$comment": "Bilateral tax treaty claims relevant to the estate.", "type": "array", "maxItems": 100, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "treaty" ], "properties": { "treaty": { "description": "Name of the bilateral tax treaty", "examples": [ "UK-US Estate Tax Treaty 1979", "Japan-US Estate Tax Treaty 1955" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255, "minLength": 1 }, "primaryTaxingJurisdiction": { "description": "The jurisdiction with primary taxing rights under this treaty", "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "claimedCredits": { "description": "Tax credits claimed under this treaty", "examples": [ "Credit for UK IHT against US federal estate tax", "Full exemption under Art. 8" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "relevantArticle": { "description": "The specific treaty article being relied upon", "examples": [ "Art. 5(1)", "Art. 8", "Art. 11(2)(a)" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "notes": { "description": "Additional context", "examples": [ "Treaty predates FATCA — potential interaction with reporting requirements" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "suggestedPractitionerNeeds": { "description": "Informational list of practitioner activity codes suggesting the types of professional help this estate may need. Computed from estate complexity, not user-entered", "$comment": "Informational. Activity codes computed from estate complexity — e.g. trust_preparation, cross_border, iht_planning. Canonical taxonomy at openinherit.org/reference/practitioner-activities.json.", "examples": [ [ "cross_border", "iht_planning", "trust_preparation" ], [ "simple_probate" ] ], "type": "array", "maxItems": 50, "items": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 } }, "createdAt": { "description": "Timestamp when this estate record was first created", "examples": [ "2024-01-15T09:00:00Z" ], "readOnly": true, "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}T\\d{2}:\\d{2}:\\d{2}", "format": "date-time" }, "lastModifiedAt": { "description": "Timestamp when this estate record was last modified", "examples": [ "2025-03-27T14:30:00Z" ], "readOnly": true, "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}T\\d{2}:\\d{2}:\\d{2}", "format": "date-time" }, "executionDate": { "description": "Date the will was formally executed (signed with proper attestation). Enables look-back period calculations when combined with lifetime transfers", "examples": [ "2024-06-15", "2020-03-01" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "administration": { "description": "Estate administration details. Tracks the journey from death through grant, tax clearance, distribution, and closure", "$comment": "Administration phase data — populated when the testator dies and the estate enters pre_probate or in_administration status.", "type": "object", "properties": { "dateOfDeath": { "description": "Date of death — the date from which succession takes effect", "examples": [ "2026-01-15" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "dateOfGrant": { "description": "Date the probate grant or letters of administration were issued", "examples": [ "2026-06-01" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "grantType": { "description": "Type of grant authorising estate administration", "$comment": "grant_of_probate: E&W/AU/NZ — court confirms named executor. letters_of_administration: E&W — no will, court appoints administrator. letters_of_administration_with_will_annexed: E&W — will exists but named executor cannot act. succession_certificate: IN/PK — Indian Succession Act s.372. certificate_of_inheritance: DE/JP/FR — Erbschein (DE), 相続証明書 (JP), Acte de notoriété (FR). court_appointment: generic court appointment of administrator. resealing: foreign grant recognised locally (Commonwealth). european_certificate_of_succession: EU Brussels IV certificate. other: jurisdiction-specific grant type.", "enum": [ "grant_of_probate", "letters_of_administration", "letters_of_administration_with_will_annexed", "succession_certificate", "certificate_of_inheritance", "court_appointment", "resealing", "european_certificate_of_succession", "other" ] }, "grantReference": { "description": "Court reference number for the grant", "examples": [ "PRO-2026-123456" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "court": { "description": "Name of the issuing court or registry", "examples": [ "Principal Registry of the Family Division", "Leeds District Probate Registry", "Tokyo Family Court" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "grossEstateValue": { "description": "Gross value of the estate at date of death, before deducting liabilities", "$ref": "common/money.json" }, "netEstateValue": { "description": "Net value of the estate after deducting liabilities", "$ref": "common/money.json" }, "taxLiability": { "description": "Total inheritance/estate tax liability", "$ref": "common/money.json" }, "taxPaid": { "description": "Amount of inheritance/estate tax paid so far", "$ref": "common/money.json" }, "taxClearance": { "description": "Tax clearance status — confirmation from the tax authority that no further tax is owed", "type": "object", "properties": { "status": { "description": "Current status of tax clearance", "$comment": "not_applied: clearance not yet applied for. applied: application submitted. received: clearance certificate received. not_required: estate below tax threshold.", "enum": [ "not_applied", "applied", "received", "not_required" ] }, "clearanceDate": { "description": "Date clearance was received", "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "reference": { "description": "Tax clearance reference number", "examples": [ "HMRC-IHT-CLR-2026-789" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "distributions": { "description": "Record of distributions made to beneficiaries during administration", "type": "array", "maxItems": 100, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "beneficiaryPersonId", "distributionDate" ], "properties": { "beneficiaryPersonId": { "description": "Person ID of the beneficiary receiving the distribution", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "bequestId": { "description": "Reference to the Bequest being fulfilled", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "distributionDate": { "description": "Date the distribution was made", "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "assetId": { "description": "Asset ID if a specific asset was transferred", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "propertyId": { "description": "Property ID if a property was transferred", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "cashAmount": { "description": "Cash amount distributed, in minor currency units", "$ref": "common/money.json" }, "receipt": { "description": "Whether a receipt/acknowledgement has been obtained from the beneficiary", "examples": [ true, false ], "type": "boolean" }, "notes": { "description": "Additional distribution notes", "examples": [ "Interim distribution — further distribution expected after property sale" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "estateAccountsFiled": { "description": "Whether the estate accounts have been prepared and filed/approved", "examples": [ false ], "type": "boolean" }, "notes": { "description": "Additional administration notes", "examples": [ "Awaiting sale of Spanish property before final distribution" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "defaultSuccessionRegime": { "description": "The default succession regime for all assets and properties in this estate. Individual assets/properties may override with their own successionRegime", "type": "object", "properties": { "governingLaw": { "description": "The default governing law for succession", "type": "object", "properties": { "jurisdiction": { "description": "Jurisdiction whose succession law applies by default", "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "legalTradition": { "description": "Which legal tradition applies", "enum": [ "common_law", "civil_law", "mixed", "customary_law", "islamic_law", "hindu_law", "jewish_law", "canon_law" ] }, "statute": { "description": "Name of the governing statute", "examples": [ "Wills Act 1837", "PRC Civil Code", "Hindu Succession Act 1956" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "section": { "description": "Specific section of the statute", "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "determinedBy": { "description": "How the governing law was determined", "enum": [ "domicile", "situs", "nationality", "personal_status", "choice_of_law", "treaty" ] }, "binding": { "description": "Whether this succession regime is legally binding", "type": "boolean" }, "extensions": { "description": "INHERIT extension IDs that apply", "type": "array", "maxItems": 50, "items": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 } }, "notes": { "description": "Additional context about the succession regime", "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "religiousConsideration": { "description": "The testator's faith-based wishes for succession. Explicitly separate from legal succession regime — may or may not be binding depending on jurisdiction", "$comment": "Estate-level only. Asset-level sacred/religious concerns are handled by culturalDisposition. tradition uses the same enum as legalSystems to maintain consistency.", "type": "object", "properties": { "tradition": { "description": "The religious legal tradition the testator wishes to follow", "enum": [ "common_law", "civil_law", "mixed", "customary_law", "islamic_law", "hindu_law", "jewish_law", "canon_law" ] }, "binding": { "description": "Whether this religious consideration is legally binding in the estate's jurisdiction", "type": "boolean" }, "notes": { "description": "Context for the religious consideration", "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "notes": { "description": "Free-text notes about the estate. Use for anything not captured by structured fields", "examples": [ "Complex cross-border estate — UK, France, and Singapore assets. Dual will structure." ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 }, "deathCertificateDate": { "description": "Date of the death certificate", "examples": [ "2026-01-15" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "deathCertificateReference": { "description": "Death certificate reference number", "examples": [ "DC-2026-12345" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 100 }, "administrationDeadline": { "description": "Target deadline for completing estate administration", "examples": [ "2027-01-15" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "administrationDeadlineSource": { "description": "Source or basis for the administration deadline", "examples": [ "12 months from grant of probate per UK practice direction" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "probateReadiness": { "description": "Machine-generated completeness assessments against jurisdiction-specific probate form requirements. This is data completeness, NOT legal validation — it says 'you haven't entered the death certificate reference yet', not 'this estate is legally ready for probate'", "type": "array", "maxItems": 20, "items": { "$ref": "#/$defs/ProbateReadiness" } }, "externalReferences": { "description": "References to this estate in external systems — practice management software, court filing systems, government portals. Enables round-trip synchronisation between INHERIT and PMS", "type": "array", "maxItems": 20, "items": { "$ref": "#/$defs/ExternalReference" } }, "provenance": { "description": "Consolidated provenance metadata — how this entity was created, by whom, and whether a human has verified it", "$ref": "common/provenance.json" }, "jurisdictionRules": { "description": "Conflict of laws rules governing this estate — determines which jurisdiction's succession law applies to which assets", "type": "object", "properties": { "doctrine": { "description": "Whether moveable and immoveable property are governed by different laws (scission) or the same law (unity)", "enum": [ "scission", "unity", "hybrid" ] }, "immoveableRule": { "description": "Which law governs immoveable property (real estate)", "enum": [ "lex_situs", "lex_domicilii", "lex_patriae", "chosen_law" ] }, "moveableRule": { "description": "Which law governs moveable property", "enum": [ "lex_domicilii", "lex_patriae", "chosen_law" ] }, "choiceOfLaw": { "type": "object", "properties": { "chosenJurisdiction": { "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "basis": { "enum": [ "nationality", "habitual_residence", "domicile" ] }, "instrument": { "enum": [ "brussels_iv", "hague_convention", "bilateral_treaty", "domestic_law" ] }, "validIn": { "description": "Jurisdiction codes where this choice is recognised, e.g. [\"EU\"] for Brussels IV", "type": "array", "items": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 10 } } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "contestability": { "description": "Structured assessment of grounds on which this will could be contested — the challenge surface", "type": "object", "required": [ "status" ], "properties": { "status": { "enum": [ "not_assessed", "assessed_no_grounds", "grounds_identified" ] }, "grounds": { "type": "array", "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "ground", "jurisdiction" ], "properties": { "ground": { "$comment": "These are grounds for CHALLENGING a will. Revocation and rectification are separate legal actions.", "enum": [ "lack_of_testamentary_capacity", "undue_influence", "fraud", "forgery", "lack_of_knowledge_and_approval", "want_of_due_execution" ] }, "jurisdiction": { "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "legalTest": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "limbs": { "type": "array", "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "name" ], "properties": { "name": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 255, "minLength": 1 }, "satisfied": { "type": [ "boolean", "null" ] } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "assessedBy": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "assessedDate": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "influenceFactors": { "type": "array", "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "influencerPersonId", "subjectPersonId" ], "properties": { "influencerPersonId": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "subjectPersonId": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "relationshipType": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 100 }, "cohabiting": { "type": "boolean" }, "financialDependency": { "enum": [ "none", "subject_on_influencer", "influencer_on_subject", "mutual" ] }, "giftsDuringLifetime": { "type": "boolean" } }, "additionalProperties": false } } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "taxTreaties": { "description": "Double taxation treaties affecting this estate — determines which jurisdiction taxes which assets and how double taxation is relieved", "type": "array", "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "between", "treatyType" ], "properties": { "between": { "type": "array", "maxItems": 2, "minItems": 2, "items": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[A-Z]{2}$" } }, "treatyType": { "enum": [ "estate_and_inheritance", "gift_tax", "income_tax", "comprehensive" ] }, "primaryTaxingRight": { "type": "object", "properties": { "immoveable": { "enum": [ "situs", "domicile", "nationality" ] }, "moveable": { "enum": [ "domicile", "nationality", "situs" ] } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "reliefMethod": { "enum": [ "credit", "exemption", "deduction" ] }, "treatyReference": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "deathVerification": { "description": "Verification of the testator's death — addresses the delegation trigger gap identified by the OpenID Foundation", "type": "object", "properties": { "method": { "enum": [ "death_certificate", "coroner_report", "civil_registry", "court_order", "medical_certificate", "community_declaration", "presumption_of_death" ] }, "issuingAuthority": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "jurisdiction": { "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "referenceNumber": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "dateOfDeath": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "registrationDate": { "description": "Date death was officially registered — may differ from dateOfDeath", "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "verifiedAt": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}T\\d{2}:\\d{2}:\\d{2}", "format": "date-time" }, "verifiedBy": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "trustLevel": { "description": "Trust level of the death verification — maps to emerging digital estate delegation trust frameworks", "$comment": "government_certified: verified by a government authority (death certificate, civil registry). medical_certified: verified by a medical professional (medical certificate of death). platform_detected: detected by a platform through inactivity or signal analysis. community_declared: declared by community members under customary law. self_reported: self-reported by a family member or other party without independent verification.", "enum": [ "government_certified", "medical_certified", "platform_detected", "community_declared", "self_reported" ] }, "fhirPatientRef": { "description": "URI pointing to the FHIR Patient resource whose death triggered the estate. Enables data exchange between healthcare systems and INHERIT", "$comment": "FHIR R5 Patient resource reference. Zero complexity for non-FHIR users — simply omit.", "type": "string", "pattern": "^https?://", "format": "uri", "maxLength": 2048 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "escheatment": { "description": "Escheatment — the reversion of unclaimed estate property to the state. Applies when no valid heirs can be identified after statutory dormancy periods", "$comment": "Texas Comptroller-requested: US states actively pursue escheatment of dormant estate assets", "type": "object", "properties": { "jurisdiction": { "description": "Jurisdiction whose escheatment laws apply", "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "dormancyPeriodYears": { "description": "Statutory dormancy period in years before escheatment", "type": "integer", "minimum": 0 }, "escheatDate": { "description": "Date on which escheatment takes effect (or is projected to take effect)", "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "claimingAuthority": { "description": "Name of the government authority claiming the escheated property", "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "status": { "description": "Current status of the escheatment", "enum": [ "at_risk", "dormancy_running", "escheated", "reclaimed" ] }, "affectedAssetIds": { "description": "Asset IDs affected by escheatment", "type": "array", "maxItems": 100, "items": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" } }, "notes": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "testamentaryScenarios": { "description": "Testamentary scenarios — declarative conditions for mirror wills, survivorship, commorientes, and remarriage revocation", "type": "array", "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "id", "description", "conditions" ], "properties": { "id": { "$comment": "Human-readable slugs (e.g. james-dies-first), not UUIDs — supports practitioner-facing scenario names", "type": "string", "maxLength": 100, "minLength": 1 }, "description": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 500, "minLength": 1 }, "conditions": { "type": "array", "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "personId", "event" ], "properties": { "personId": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "event": { "enum": [ "death", "survives", "remarriage", "commorientes", "incapacity" ] }, "order": { "type": "integer", "minimum": 1 }, "rule": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 100 }, "jurisdiction": { "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "presumption": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 100 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "activeBequests": { "description": "Bequest IDs that activate under this scenario", "type": "array", "items": { "type": "string", "format": "uuid" } }, "activeExecutors": { "description": "Executor IDs that activate under this scenario", "type": "array", "items": { "type": "string", "format": "uuid" } }, "notes": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "integrity": { "description": "Cryptographic digest of the canonical form of this document, excluding the integrity field itself — used for tamper detection and signing readiness", "$comment": "The digest is computed over the canonical JSON serialisation (keys in lexicographic order, no whitespace, UTF-8 NFC). See docs/policies/canonical-json.md for the full specification.", "type": "object", "properties": { "algorithm": { "description": "Hash algorithm used to compute the digest", "enum": [ "sha-256", "sha-384", "sha-512" ] }, "digest": { "description": "Hex-encoded digest value", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-f]+$", "minLength": 64, "maxLength": 128 } }, "required": [ "algorithm", "digest" ], "additionalProperties": false }, "disinheritedPersons": { "description": "Persons whom the testator has explicitly excluded from inheriting. Distinguishes deliberate exclusion from oversight — critical for family provision and forced heirship claims", "type": "array", "items": { "type": "object", "properties": { "personId": { "description": "Reference to the Person.id of the excluded individual", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "personIdDisplay": { "description": "Human-readable label for the excluded person, for display purposes only", "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "statement": { "description": "The testator's own words regarding the exclusion, as recorded in the will or codicil", "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 }, "clauseReference": { "description": "Reference to the clause or section of the will containing the exclusion — e.g. 'clause 5', 'schedule 2 para 3'", "type": "string", "maxLength": 100 }, "reason": { "description": "Practitioner-recorded reason for the exclusion, separate from the testator's own statement", "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "required": [ "personId" ], "additionalProperties": false } }, "governingJurisdictions": { "description": "Jurisdictions governing succession for this estate, with scope. Use when multiple legal systems apply to different assets (e.g. lex situs for immovable property abroad). Per-asset law is recorded on each asset/property via applicableLaw; this array provides the estate-level coordination map", "type": "array", "maxItems": 50, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "jurisdiction", "scope" ], "properties": { "jurisdiction": { "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "scope": { "description": "Whether this jurisdiction applies to the whole estate or specific assets", "enum": [ "default", "specific_assets" ] }, "assetIds": { "description": "Asset IDs governed by this jurisdiction (when scope is specific_assets)", "type": "array", "items": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" } }, "propertyIds": { "description": "Property IDs governed by this jurisdiction (when scope is specific_assets)", "type": "array", "items": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" } }, "statute": { "description": "Governing statute", "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "notes": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "mutualWillAgreement": { "description": "A binding mutual will agreement — two testators promise not to revoke their wills without notice. Creates a constructive trust on the survivor's estate. Distinct from mirror wills (which are independent)", "type": "object", "properties": { "exists": { "type": "boolean" }, "counterpartyPersonId": { "description": "The other testator bound by the agreement", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "counterpartyEstateId": { "description": "Reference to the counterparty's estate document, if available", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "binding": { "type": "boolean" }, "agreementDocumentId": { "description": "Reference to Document.id recording the mutual promise", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "terms": { "description": "Summary of the agreement terms", "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 }, "revocable": { "type": "boolean" } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "parallelSuccessionConflicts": { "description": "Conflicts between parallel legal systems where the will cannot override customary or statutory rights", "type": "array", "maxItems": 50, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "legalSystem", "natureOfRight" ], "properties": { "legalSystem": { "description": "The legal system asserting the right", "examples": [ "igbo_customary", "zulu_customary", "maori_tikanga", "aboriginal_customary" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 100 }, "affectedPersonId": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "natureOfRight": { "description": "Description of the customary right that conflicts with the will", "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 }, "overridableByWill": { "type": "boolean" }, "statutoryBasis": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "resolution": { "enum": [ "pending", "resolved_by_will", "resolved_by_court", "irreconcilable" ] } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "careProvisions": { "description": "Ongoing care provisions for dependent adults, linking person, trust, and guardian", "type": "array", "maxItems": 50, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "dependantPersonId" ], "properties": { "dependantPersonId": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "trustId": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "guardianId": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "annualEstimatedCost": { "$ref": "common/money.json" }, "careNeeds": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "familyProvisionClaims": { "description": "Potential or actual family provision claims against the estate. Tracks claims under statutes like the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975", "type": "array", "maxItems": 50, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "claimantPersonId", "claimType" ], "properties": { "claimantPersonId": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "claimType": { "enum": [ "spouse", "cohabitant", "child", "dependant", "maintained_person" ] }, "jurisdiction": { "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "statute": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "status": { "enum": [ "potential", "filed", "settled", "dismissed" ] }, "amount": { "$ref": "common/money.json" }, "notes": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "connections": { "description": "Non-familial connections between people in the estate. Directed: fromPersonId has the connection to toPersonId", "type": "array", "maxItems": 200, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "fromPersonId", "toPersonId", "connectionType" ], "properties": { "fromPersonId": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "toPersonId": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "connectionType": { "enum": [ "friend", "solicitor", "financial_adviser", "accountant", "employer", "employee", "colleague", "neighbour", "carer", "religious_leader", "medical_practitioner", "business_partner", "other" ] }, "description": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "constructionClauses": { "description": "Interpretive and construction rules expressed in the will", "type": "array", "maxItems": 50, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "clauseType", "content" ], "properties": { "clauseType": { "enum": [ "gender_neutrality", "severability", "governing_law", "interpretation_rule", "definitions", "custom" ] }, "content": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 }, "clauseReference": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 50 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "validityStatus": { "description": "Ongoing validity state of the will. Records life events that may invalidate the document", "type": "array", "maxItems": 50, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "conditionType" ], "properties": { "conditionType": { "enum": [ "unmarried", "not_divorced", "not_converted", "domiciled_in", "testamentary_capacity", "no_subsequent_will", "custom" ] }, "description": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "status": { "enum": [ "satisfied", "breached", "unknown" ] }, "breachedDate": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "statute": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "administrationPhases": { "description": "Universal priority phases for estate administration. Lower priority numbers satisfied first", "type": "array", "maxItems": 10, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "priority", "category" ], "properties": { "priority": { "type": "integer", "minimum": 1, "maximum": 99 }, "category": { "enum": [ "funeral_expenses", "testamentary_expenses", "secured_debts", "unsecured_debts", "distribution", "custom" ] }, "description": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "executorPowers": { "description": "Statutory and express powers granted to executors/trustees for estate administration", "type": "array", "maxItems": 50, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "powerType" ], "properties": { "powerType": { "enum": [ "statutory_default", "sale_and_conversion", "postponement", "appropriation", "insurance", "investment", "delegation", "custom" ] }, "statute": { "description": "The statute conferring or modifying this power", "examples": [ "Trustee Act 2000", "Administration of Estates Act 1925 s.41" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "description": { "description": "The specific power as expressed in the will", "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 }, "clauseReference": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 50 } }, "additionalProperties": false } }, "statutoryExclusions": { "description": "Statutes explicitly excluded from applying to this estate. Common: Apportionment Act 1870, Trustee Act 2000 s.31/s.32", "type": "array", "maxItems": 50, "items": { "type": "object", "required": [ "statute" ], "properties": { "statute": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "sections": { "description": "Specific sections excluded", "type": "string", "maxLength": 100 }, "jurisdiction": { "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "effect": { "description": "What the exclusion means in practice", "type": "string", "maxLength": 1000 }, "clauseReference": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 50 } }, "additionalProperties": false } } }, "patternProperties": { "^x-inherit-[a-z][a-z0-9-]{1,54}$": { "type": "object", "maxProperties": 50, "propertyNames": { "pattern": "^[a-zA-Z_][a-zA-Z0-9_]*$", "maxLength": 64 } } }, "unevaluatedProperties": false, "dependentRequired": { "companionEstateId": [ "companionLinkStatus" ] }, "$defs": { "Codicil": { "description": "An amendment to an existing will. Codicils must be executed with the same formalities as the will itself", "type": "object", "required": [ "id", "codicilDate" ], "properties": { "id": { "description": "Unique identifier for this codicil", "examples": [ "a1b2c3d4-e5f6-7890-abcd-ef1234567890" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "codicilDate": { "description": "Date the codicil was executed", "examples": [ "2024-06-15" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "description": { "description": "Summary of what this codicil changes in the original will", "examples": [ "Replaces executor appointment — substitutes daughter for brother-in-law" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 }, "attestation": { "description": "Execution formalities for this codicil", "$ref": "attestation.json" }, "documentId": { "description": "Reference to the Document entity storing the codicil text", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "amendsClauseIds": { "description": "Clause identifiers in the original will that this codicil amends. Enables computing the effective will after amendments", "type": "array", "items": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "maxItems": 100, "uniqueItems": true }, "revokesClauseIds": { "description": "Clause identifiers in the original will that this codicil revokes entirely", "type": "array", "items": { "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "maxItems": 100, "uniqueItems": true }, "priorDocumentId": { "description": "Identifier of the will or codicil that this codicil amends — links to the Document entity of the prior instrument", "type": "string", "pattern": "^[0-9a-fA-F]{8}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{4}-[0-9a-fA-F]{12}$", "format": "uuid" }, "effectiveDate": { "description": "Date when this codicil takes effect, if different from the execution date — supports conditional or deferred codicils", "examples": [ "2025-01-01" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "TestamentaryCapacity": { "description": "Record of testamentary capacity assessment. The testator must understand the nature of making a will, the extent of their estate, and the claims of those they are excluding", "type": "object", "properties": { "assessed": { "description": "Whether a capacity assessment was carried out", "examples": [ true ], "type": "boolean" }, "assessmentDate": { "description": "Date the capacity assessment took place", "examples": [ "2024-03-10" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "assessorName": { "description": "Name of the person who assessed capacity", "examples": [ "Dr Sarah Patel", "Dr Kenji Watanabe", "Dr Aisha Ibrahim", "Dr Tendai Moyo" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "assessorRole": { "description": "Professional role of the assessor — typically a GP, psychiatrist, or solicitor", "examples": [ "General Practitioner", "Consultant Psychiatrist", "Solicitor" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "capacityConfirmed": { "description": "Whether the assessor confirmed the testator has testamentary capacity", "examples": [ true ], "type": "boolean" }, "goldenRuleComplied": { "description": "Whether the 'golden rule' was followed — a medical practitioner assessing capacity for elderly or seriously ill testators", "$comment": "The 'golden rule' (Kenward v Adams [1975]) — elderly/seriously ill testators should have a medical practitioner assess capacity.", "type": "boolean" }, "notes": { "description": "Additional notes on the capacity assessment", "examples": [ "Testator showed clear understanding of estate and family circumstances" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "ForcedHeirship": { "description": "Forced heirship regime details. Many civil law jurisdictions reserve a portion of the estate for certain heirs regardless of the will", "type": "object", "properties": { "applies": { "description": "Whether forced heirship rules apply to this estate", "examples": [ true ], "type": "boolean" }, "reservedPortion": { "description": "Percentage of the estate reserved for protected heirs. In France, this is 50% for one child, 66.67% for two, 75% for three or more", "examples": [ 50, 66.67, 75 ], "type": "number", "maximum": 100, "minimum": 0 }, "disposableQuota": { "description": "Percentage of the estate the testator may freely dispose of by will", "examples": [ 50, 33.33, 25 ], "type": "number", "maximum": 100, "minimum": 0 }, "jurisdiction": { "description": "The jurisdiction whose forced heirship rules apply", "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "claimNature": { "description": "The legal nature of the forced heir's claim — whether they receive property, cash, or a court-determined provision", "$comment": "property_share: heir receives a share of the actual estate property (France, Germany). cash_claim: heir has a monetary claim against the estate but not a property right (Switzerland post-2023, Japan). usufruct: heir receives a right of use/enjoyment, not ownership (some Spanish regions). court_discretion: court decides the form of provision (England and Wales — Inheritance Act 1975).", "examples": [ "property_share", "cash_claim" ], "enum": [ "property_share", "cash_claim", "usufruct", "court_discretion" ] }, "calculationBasis": { "description": "How the reserved portion is calculated", "$comment": "fixed: a set percentage regardless of family size (Japan: 50% of intestate share). per_child_sliding: varies by number of children (France). court_discretion: no fixed formula — court determines reasonable provision (England and Wales). conditional: depends on specific conditions being met.", "examples": [ "fixed", "per_child_sliding" ], "enum": [ "fixed", "per_child_sliding", "court_discretion", "conditional" ] }, "applicableTo": { "description": "Which categories of heir are protected by forced heirship", "$comment": "children_only: only direct children are protected heirs. children_and_spouse: surviving spouse and children are protected. all_descendants: includes grandchildren and further issue. all_heirs: all persons in the intestacy hierarchy (rare).", "examples": [ "children_and_spouse" ], "enum": [ "children_only", "children_and_spouse", "all_descendants", "all_heirs" ] }, "deferralRule": { "description": "Rule for deferring forced heirship claims — e.g. life interest to surviving spouse with remainder to children", "examples": [ "Surviving spouse receives usufruct; children receive bare ownership" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "effectiveDate": { "description": "Date when the applicable forced heirship rules came into force. Important for reform transitions", "$comment": "When these forced heirship rules took effect. Swiss 2023 reform: 2023-01-01.", "examples": [ "2023-01-01", "2006-07-01" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "reformVersion": { "description": "The specific legislative reform establishing these rules", "$comment": "e.g., 'Swiss Code 2023 revision', 'French loi 2006-728'.", "examples": [ "Swiss Code 2023 revision", "French loi 2006-728" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "notes": { "description": "Additional notes on forced heirship — exceptions, pending challenges, or reform context", "examples": [ "Swiss 2023 reform reduced children's reserved portion from 75% to 50%" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "AdjudicatingBody": { "description": "A court or authority with jurisdiction over this estate or part of it. Plural legal systems may have multiple adjudicating bodies for the same estate", "type": "object", "required": [ "type" ], "properties": { "type": { "description": "The type of adjudicating body", "$comment": "secular_court: state civil or probate court. religious_court: a religious tribunal (unspecified denomination). beth_din: Jewish rabbinical court. shariah_court: Islamic law court. tribal_court: indigenous/tribal judicial body. family_court: state family division. family_council: collective family decision-making body (West African, Pacific Island). community_elders: informal elder-led adjudication. partition_meeting: Hindu joint family partition proceedings. karta_decision: decision by the karta (manager) of a Hindu Undivided Family. maori_land_court: New Zealand court for Maori land succession. high_court: national or state high court (typically for contested probate).", "enum": [ "secular_court", "religious_court", "beth_din", "shariah_court", "tribal_court", "family_court", "family_council", "community_elders", "partition_meeting", "karta_decision", "maori_land_court", "high_court" ] }, "name": { "description": "Name of the specific court or body", "examples": [ "Principal Registry of the Family Division", "Lagos High Court", "Beth Din of Manchester" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "jurisdiction": { "description": "Jurisdiction this adjudicating body operates in", "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "caseReference": { "description": "Case or filing reference number", "examples": [ "PR-2025-001234", "SH/2025/0456" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "authoritative": { "description": "Whether this body's decisions are binding. A beth din ruling may be persuasive but not enforceable without secular court recognition", "examples": [ true, false ], "type": "boolean" } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "ParallelDistribution": { "description": "A parallel distribution scheme operating alongside the primary estate distribution. Common in plural legal systems where statutory and customary/religious distributions run concurrently", "type": "object", "required": [ "system" ], "properties": { "system": { "description": "The legal system governing this parallel distribution", "examples": [ "Igbo customary law", "Islamic faraid", "Hindu Mitakshara" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 100 }, "jurisdiction": { "description": "Jurisdiction where this parallel distribution applies", "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "description": { "description": "Summary of how this system distributes the estate", "examples": [ "Family compound passes to eldest son as custodian under Igbo customary law" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 }, "notes": { "description": "Additional context or conflict notes", "examples": [ "Customary distribution of family land conflicts with testamentary gift to daughter" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "ProbateGrant": { "description": "A grant of probate or letters of administration issued by a court. Without a grant, executors have no legal authority to administer the estate", "type": "object", "properties": { "grantType": { "description": "The type of grant issued", "examples": [ "Grant of Probate", "Letters of Administration", "Letters of Administration with Will Annexed", "European Certificate of Succession" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "grantDate": { "description": "Date the grant was issued by the court", "examples": [ "2025-06-15" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "grantReference": { "description": "Court reference number for the grant", "examples": [ "PRO-2025-123456" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "issuingCourt": { "description": "Name of the court or registry that issued the grant", "examples": [ "Principal Registry of the Family Division", "Birmingham District Probate Registry", "Supreme Court of New South Wales" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "jurisdiction": { "description": "Jurisdiction that issued this grant", "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "notes": { "description": "Additional notes about the grant", "examples": [ "Limited grant — foreign property excluded" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "DeathRecord": { "description": "Details of the testator's death. Establishes the date from which succession takes effect and the domicile at death (which determines governing law for moveables)", "type": "object", "properties": { "dateOfDeath": { "description": "Date of death in ISO 8601 format", "examples": [ "2025-09-30" ], "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}$", "format": "date" }, "placeOfDeath": { "description": "Place where death occurred", "examples": [ "Manchester Royal Infirmary", "At home, 42 Acacia Avenue, London", "Tokyo Metropolitan Hospital" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "deathCertificateRef": { "description": "Death certificate reference number", "examples": [ "DC-2025-123456" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 }, "domicileAtDeath": { "description": "The testator's domicile at the time of death. This determines which succession law governs moveable property", "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "notes": { "description": "Additional notes about the death record", "examples": [ "Death registered in two jurisdictions — UK and France" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "SuccessionConflict": { "description": "A conflict between legal systems regarding succession for this estate. Common in plural jurisdictions and cross-border estates", "type": "object", "required": [ "description" ], "properties": { "description": { "description": "Summary of the conflict between legal systems", "examples": [ "Statutory will gives daughter the house; Igbo customary law gives eldest son custodianship", "French forced heirship claim conflicts with English testamentary freedom" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 }, "systems": { "description": "The legal systems in conflict", "examples": [ [ "statutory", "Igbo customary" ], [ "French civil law", "English common law" ] ], "type": "array", "maxItems": 20, "items": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 500 } }, "resolutionStatus": { "description": "Current status of this conflict", "$comment": "unresolved: no resolution attempt yet. resolved: conflict has been settled. pending_court: matter referred to a court. pending_arbitration: matter referred to arbitration or mediation.", "enum": [ "unresolved", "resolved", "pending_court", "pending_arbitration" ] }, "notes": { "description": "Additional context or resolution details", "examples": [ "Family council meeting scheduled for December 2025" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "ProbateReadiness": { "description": "Completeness assessment of estate data against a jurisdiction-specific probate form. This is data completeness, NOT legal validation", "type": "object", "required": [ "jurisdiction", "targetForm", "requiredFieldsPresent", "requiredFieldsTotal", "assessedAt" ], "properties": { "jurisdiction": { "description": "The jurisdiction this assessment applies to", "$ref": "common/jurisdiction.json" }, "targetForm": { "description": "Form identifier from form-requirements.json", "examples": [ "PA1P", "IHT400", "Form74A", "Form109" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 50 }, "requiredFieldsPresent": { "description": "Number of required fields that are populated", "examples": [ 14 ], "type": "integer", "minimum": 0 }, "requiredFieldsTotal": { "description": "Total number of required fields for this form", "examples": [ 16 ], "type": "integer", "minimum": 1 }, "missingFields": { "description": "INHERIT field paths that are required by the form but not yet populated", "examples": [ [ "estate.deathRecord.deathCertificateRef", "estate.administration.ihtFormReference" ] ], "type": "array", "maxItems": 100, "items": { "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 } }, "assessedAt": { "description": "When this assessment was performed", "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}T\\d{2}:\\d{2}:\\d{2}", "format": "date-time" }, "assessedBy": { "description": "Who or what performed the assessment", "$comment": "system: automated check by the hosting application. solicitor: manually assessed by a legal professional. willscan: assessed by WillScan.ai extraction. manual: other manual assessment.", "anyOf": [ { "enum": [ "system", "solicitor", "willscan", "manual" ] }, { "type": "string", "pattern": "^x-inherit-.+" } ] }, "notes": { "description": "Additional context about the assessment", "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false }, "ExternalReference": { "description": "A reference to this estate in an external system — practice management software, court filing systems, government portals", "type": "object", "required": [ "system", "referenceId", "referenceType" ], "properties": { "system": { "description": "The external system name", "examples": [ "clio", "actionstep", "leap", "mycase", "practicepanther", "hmcts", "companies_house" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 100 }, "referenceId": { "description": "The matter/case/action ID in the external system", "examples": [ "MTR-2026-00412", "PRB-2026-EN-78901" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 255 }, "referenceType": { "description": "What type of entity this references in the external system", "$comment": "matter: a case/matter in PMS. contact: a contact record. document: a document/file. filing: a court filing or submission. other: any other external reference.", "anyOf": [ { "enum": [ "matter", "contact", "document", "case", "action", "filing", "other" ] }, { "type": "string", "pattern": "^x-inherit-.+" } ] }, "referenceUrl": { "description": "Deep link to the entity in the external system", "examples": [ "https://app.clio.com/nc/#/matters/12345" ], "type": "string", "format": "uri", "maxLength": 2000 }, "syncedAt": { "description": "When this reference was last synchronised", "type": "string", "pattern": "^\\d{4}-\\d{2}-\\d{2}T\\d{2}:\\d{2}:\\d{2}", "format": "date-time" }, "notes": { "description": "Additional context about this reference", "examples": [ "PA1P application submitted 15 Mar 2026" ], "type": "string", "maxLength": 2000 } }, "additionalProperties": false } } }