The Missouri Affidavit of Warship — Descent is a legal document used to establish the rightful heirs of a deceased person's estate. This affidavit is particularly relevant in situations where the deceased individual did not leave a will or where the will is considered invalid. By filing this document, the heirs can establish their legal rights to the assets and properties of the deceased. The Affidavit of Warship — Descent is an essential tool in the probate process, as it helps to determine the appropriate distribution of the deceased person's estate. It outlines the genealogy of the decedent, providing detailed information about the family members who are entitled to inherit the assets. This affidavit is particularly crucial in cases where the deceased individual did not have a spouse or children, as it assists in identifying other close relatives who may be entitled to the estate. In Missouri, there are different types of Affidavits of Warship — Descent depending on the specific circumstances. Some of these variations include: 1. Standard Affidavit of Warship — Descent: This is the most common type of affidavit used in Missouri. It includes information about the deceased person's family, such as their spouse, children, parents, and grandparents, along with their dates of birth and death. 2. Simplified Affidavit of Warship — Descent: This type of affidavit is used when the deceased person's estate is of relatively low value. It simplifies the process by providing a concise summary of the deceased person's family and their rights to the estate. 3. Affidavit of Warship — Descent with Independent Administrator: In cases where the estate requires administration, but the decedent did not leave a will, this affidavit is used along with the appointment of an independent administrator to handle the distribution of the estate. 4. Affidavit of Warship — Descent with Small Estate Affidavit: This type of affidavit is utilized when the estate meets the criteria for a small estate under Missouri law. It allows for an expedited process to settle the estate without the need for a full probate administration. It is crucial to consult with an experienced attorney or legal professional when preparing an Affidavit of Warship — Descent in Missouri to ensure compliance with the state's specific requirements and to accurately determine who is entitled to the deceased person's estate. Proper completion and filing of this affidavit can help protect the rights of the rightful heirs and facilitate the efficient distribution of assets.