§ 1207 Notice Exceptions For Heirs

• •Notice to heirs isn’t required for step‑children or foster children if the notice‑giver doesn’t actually know the relationship exists.
• •If the notice‑giver does have actual knowledge of the step‑ or foster‑parent relationship, the exemption does NOT apply and notice must be given.
• •The rule only applies when the law says notice must be given to the decedent’s beneficiaries, devisees, or heirs.

Jane is handling her late mother’s estate. The will says all "children" must be notified. Jane’s mother had a step‑daughter, Lily, but Jane never knew if Lily was legally a step‑child. Because Jane doesn’t actually know the step‑child relationship, she can skip sending Lily notice.

Since Jane has no actual knowledge that Lily is a step‑child (or foster child) of the decedent, the law lets her not give Lily the required notice. If Jane did know Lily was a step‑child, she would have to send notice.