Parol evidence is generally not relevant to probate filings. Which description best reflects this principle?

• A. Parol evidence can alter the terms of a will in court filings.
• B. Parol evidence is used to interpret deeds only.
• C. Parol evidence is generally admissible in probate filings to interpret the intent.
• D. Oral statements not reflected in written documents; not typically used to alter the terms of a will or trust in court filings; the clerk relies on filed documents.

Answer: (D)

Oral statements outside the written instrument are not the basis for handling probate filings. In this process, the filed documents—the will and any codicils—control, and clerks rely on those written records. Parol evidence, meaning spoken statements not captured in the written document, is not normally used to alter the terms of a will or trust in court filings. While extrinsic evidence can come into play later in litigation to interpret ambiguities or challenge validity, the routine filing and processing focus on the documents themselves. This is why the description that oral statements not reflected in written documents aren’t used to change the terms, and that the clerk depends on the filed documents, best captures the principle.