3B:9-1  Definitions.

3B:9-1.  As used in this chapter:

a.A “present interest” is one to take effect in immediate possession, use or enjoyment without the intervention of a preceding estate or interest or without being dependent upon the happening of any event or thing;

b.A “future interest” is one to take effect in possession, use or enjoyment dependent upon the termination of an intervening estate or interest or the happening of any event or thing;

c.A “devisee” means any person designated in a will to receive a devise, but does not mean a trustee or trust designated in a will to receive a devise;

d.The “effective date” is the date on which a property right vests, or a contract right arises, even though the right is subject to divestment;

e.”Joint property” is property that is owned by two or more persons with rights of survivorship and includes a tenancy by the entirety, a joint tenancy, a joint tenancy with rights of survivorship and a joint life estate with contingent remainder in fee.  For purposes of this chapter, joint property is deemed to consist of a present interest and a future interest.  The future interest is the right of survivorship;

f.”Joint tenant” is the co-owner of joint property.

Amended 2004, c.132, s.63.