D.C. Code § 11-2104: Powers and duties; restrictions.

(a)

The Register of Wills may —

(1)

receive inventories and accounts of sales, examine vouchers, and state accounts of executors, administrators, collectors, and guardians, subject to final approval of the court;

(2)

take the probate of claims against the estates of deceased persons that are properly brought before the Register of Wills, and approve or reject claims not exceeding $300;

(3)

take the probate of wills and accept the bonds of executors, administrators, collectors, and guardians, subject to approval of the court; and

(4)

audit and state fiduciary accounts.

(b)

In matters over which the Superior Court has probate jurisdiction or powers, the Register of Wills shall —

(1)

make full and fair entries, in separate records, of the proceedings of the court;

(2)

record in electronic or other format all wills proved before the Register of Wills or the court and other matters required by law to be recorded in the court;

(3)

lodge in places of safety designated by the court original papers filed with the Register of Wills;

(4)

make out and issue every summons, process, and order of the court;

(5)

prepare and submit to the Executive Officer of the District of Columbia courts such reports as may be required; and

(6)

in every respect, act under the control and direction of the court.

(c)

The Register of Wills may not —

(1)

practice law in any court of the District of Columbia or of the United States; or

(2)

demand or receive any fee, gratuity, gift, or reward for giving advice in any matter relating to the office.