The Colorado Affidavit of Warship for Small Estates is a legal document that allows individuals to establish their rightful ownership of assets and property in cases where the deceased person did not leave a will or trust. This affidavit is particularly applicable in situations where the estate is relatively small and does not require a full probate process. The purpose of the Colorado Affidavit of Warship for Small Estates is to simplify the transfer of assets to the rightful heirs without the need for formal court proceedings. It provides a streamlined alternative to probate, enabling the heirs to claim their inheritance more efficiently. This affidavit primarily serves as evidence of the legal heirs' identities and their rights to the estate. By completing this document, the heirs can assert their rightful claims and transfer the decedent's assets, such as bank accounts, personal property, and real estate, among themselves without the involvement of the court. It helps speed up the process of distributing the estate and offers a cost-effective alternative for handling small estates. In Colorado, there are two main types of Affidavit of Warship for Small Estates based on the value of the estate: 1. Small Estate Affidavit of Warship: This affidavit applies when the total value of the estate in question, excluding any liens and encumbrances, is less than $70,000. With this document, the heirs can gather the necessary information, including their relationship to the deceased, and attest to their right to inherit the estate. The Small Estate Affidavit of Warship must be signed by two disinterested witnesses who are not named as heirs in the document. 2. Collection of Personal Property by Affidavit: This type of affidavit is applicable when the value of the entire estate, except for liens and encumbrances, is less than or equal to $64,000. It allows the heirs to collect personal property, including cash, up to this specified value. The Collection of Personal Property by Affidavit can be completed by a single heir or multiple heirs, and it does not require witnesses to sign. Completing either of these affidavits requires providing detailed information about the deceased person, including their full name, date of death, and residential address. The legal heirs must also include their names, addresses, and the nature of their relationship to the deceased. It is crucial to provide accurate and complete information to ensure the legality and effectiveness of the affidavit. Consulting an attorney or legal professional experienced in Colorado estate law is advisable when preparing the Affidavit of Warship for Small Estates. They can guide the heirs through the process, ensure compliance with relevant laws, and help prevent any potential legal issues that may arise during the estate administration.