{"code":"PROB","codeName":"Probate Code","section":"59","citation":"Prob. Code, § 59","status":"in-force","lawOn":"2026-09-28","headings":[{"name":"DIVISION 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS AND DEFINITIONS [1. - 88.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/probate-code/division-1"},{"name":"PART 2. DEFINITIONS [20. - 88.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/probate-code/division-1/part-2"}],"history":"Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 50, Sec. 76.   (SB 1005)   Effective January 1, 2017.","effective":"2017-01-01","html":"<p>“Predeceased spouse” means a person who died before the decedent while married to the decedent, except that the term does not include any of the following:</p><p>(a) A person who obtains or consents to a final decree or judgment of dissolution of marriage from the decedent or a final decree or judgment of annulment of their marriage, which decree or judgment is not recognized as valid in this state, unless they (1) subsequently participate in a marriage ceremony purporting to marry each to the other or (2) subsequently live together as spouses.</p><p>(b) A person who, following a decree or judgment of dissolution or annulment of marriage obtained by the decedent, participates in a marriage ceremony to a third person.</p><p>(c) A person who was a party to a valid proceeding concluded by an order purporting to terminate all marital property rights.</p>","text":"“Predeceased spouse” means a person who died before the decedent while married to the decedent, except that the term does not include any of the following: (a) A person who obtains or consents to a final decree or judgment of dissolution of marriage from the decedent or a final decree or judgment of annulment of their marriage, which decree or judgment is not recognized as valid in this state, unless they (1) subsequently participate in a marriage ceremony purporting to marry each to the other or (2) subsequently live together as spouses. (b) A person who, following a decree or judgment of dissolution or annulment of marriage obtained by the decedent, participates in a marriage ceremony to a third person. (c) A person who was a party to a valid proceeding concluded by an order purporting to terminate all marital property rights.","otherVersions":[],"url":"https://blackletter.si/probate-code/definitions-59","source":"California Legislative Information bulk export (pubinfo)"}