36 M.R.S. § 4077 — Appointment of personal representative on probate delay

If, upon the death of a person leaving an estate which may be liable to pay an estate tax, a will is not offered for probate or an application for administration is not made within 6 months after the date of death, or if the personal representative does not qualify within that period, the Probate Court, upon application by the State Tax Assessor, may appoint a personal representative. Nothing may prevent the State Tax Assessor from petitioning for appointment within 6 months after the date of death, if in the opinion of the State Tax Assessor that action is necessary.