After someone dies, certain individuals have a legal right to make a claim to the estate if they feel that they haven't been adequately provided for in the deceased's will. These individuals include the deceased's spouse and their children, amongst others.
While you cannot take the deceased defendant to court, the California Probate Code 377.40 – 377.43 allows for filing a lawsuit against their estate. Under the California statute of limitations, the person filing an injury claim is considered a creditor.
Understanding the Deceased Estate 3-Year Rule The core premise of the 3-year rule is that if the deceased's estate is not claimed or administered within three years of their death, the state or governing body may step in and take control of the distribution and management of the assets.