3B:9-4.1 - Disclaimer by a fiduciary of a power of discretion

3B:9-4.1  Disclaimer by a fiduciary of a power of discretion.

67. a. Any fiduciary, including an agent acting on behalf of a principal within the implied or general authority of a power of attorney, may disclaim any power or discretion held by such fiduciary in a fiduciary capacity.  Unless the governing instrument specifically authorizes the fiduciary to disclaim such power or discretion without obtaining court authorization to do so, the disclaimer by the fiduciary shall not be effective unless, prior thereto, such fiduciary has been authorized to disclaim by the court having jurisdiction over the fiduciary after finding that it is advisable and will not materially prejudice the rights of: (1) devisees, heirs, or beneficiaries of the decedent; (2) the minor, the incapacitated individual, the conservatee, or the principal; or (3) the beneficiaries of the trust.

b.Unless expressly authorized by the court or by the governing instrument:

(1)Any disclaimer under this section shall be personal to the fiduciary so disclaiming and shall not constitute a disclaimer by a co-fiduciary or a successor or substituted fiduciary of such power or discretion;

(2)No disclaimer shall affect the rights of: (a) devisees, heirs or beneficiaries of the decedent; (b) the minor, the incapacitated individual, the conservatee, or the principal; or (c) the beneficiaries of the trust.

L.2004,c.132,s.67.