The duration of a life estate is BEST described as which of the following?

• A. A fixed term
• B. Potentially infinite
• C. Not to exceed 99 years
• D. A life or the lives of one or more persons

Answer: (D)

A life estate is defined by the life of a person or persons. The duration is measured by a living individual's life, and the estate ends when that life (or the last of multiple measuring lives) ends. If the life tenant’s life is the measuring life, the property reverts or passes to a remainder holder at death. If multiple lives are involved, the estate continues until the last of those lives ends. This is why the best description is a life estate lasting for the life of a person or the lives of one or more persons.