What is the purpose of a citation in Surrogate's Court proceedings?

• A. To notify the court of the petition.
• B. To notify interested parties of the petition and give them an opportunity to appear or object before the court acts.
• C. To assign a date for a court hearing.
• D. To publish the will.

Answer: (B)

The purpose of a citation in Surrogate's Court proceedings is to ensure notice and the opportunity to be heard. It alerts all interested parties—such as heirs, devisees, beneficiaries, creditors, and others who could be affected by the petition—that a petition has been filed and that a hearing will address the matter. The citation explains what is being requested, the hearing date, and the right to appear or object before the court acts, so those with a stake in the estate can participate in the process. Service of the citation is the mechanism that makes this notice effective, and it may be personal, by mail, or by publication if some parties are unknown or unobtainable. This requirement protects due process by preventing the court from taking actions—like approving a will, appointing a fiduciary, or distributing assets—without giving interested persons a chance to present their interests or objections.