TO AMEND THE PROCEDURES FOR THE DECLARATION OF LEGAL DEATH OF A MISSING PERSON.

House Bill 1839 amends the procedures in Arkansas for legally declaring a missing person dead. It allows an interested party to petition the probate court for this declaration, particularly if a person has been missing for over five years or due to the nature of their absence. Petitioners must provide a detailed affidavit describing the circumstances of absence and search efforts, and give specific notice to close relatives and those with significant financial interests. The bill establishes a court hearing to evaluate evidence, setting a rebuttable presumption of death if a person has been missing for five or more years, or requiring clear and convincing evidence if missing for less time.