In re the Estate of Hardin

Caplan, Justice:

The controlling question presented for resolution on this appeal is whether a copy of a foreign divorce decree not authenticated as provided in W. Va. Code, 1931, 57-1-12 constitutes a proper voucher for proving a claim against the estate of a decedent as required by W. Va. Code, 1931, 44-2-5.

Jack W. Hardin died intestate in Kanawha County, West Virgina on July 5, 1970 and his widow, Grace D. Hardin, was appointed administratrix on his estate. The estate was referred to a commissioner of accounts who set February 10, 1971 as the final date for receiving proof of debts, claims…