What is commonly used in lieu of Letters Probate for small estates?

The appropriate document commonly used instead of Letters Probate for small estates is an Affidavit of Execution of the Will. This affidavit serves as proof that the will was duly executed, which can simplify the process of estate administration when the estate's value falls below a certain threshold that allows for a less formal probate process.

When an estate is small enough, administering it through a more streamlined procedure can provide significant benefits, such as reduced costs and quicker resolution. The Affidavit of Execution acknowledges that the will was properly signed and witnessed, allowing a designated executor or administrator to proceed with fulfilling the terms of the will without the need for a formal probate court proceeding.

The other options do not fulfill the same role as the Affidavit of Execution of the Will. A Letter of Indemnity typically serves to protect one party from loss or damage under certain circumstances, a Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants someone authority to act on another's behalf, and a Living Will outlines a person's wishes regarding medical treatment in situations where they cannot communicate those wishes. Each of these documents serves specific functions that do not relate to the administration of a deceased person's estate in the context of avoiding formal probate procedures.