What Happens If You Die Without a Will? [Updated 2023]
Losing a loved one is an emotional and difficult experience for everyone involved. Unfortunately, this difficult time can become even more complicated if the deceased did not have a will in place. In this article, we will explore the consequences of dying without a will and why it's crucial to have a plan in place. We spoke with a San Jose probate lawyer to get expert insights and guidance on this topic. What is a will? Before we dive into the consequences of dying without a will, it's important to understand what a will is. A will is a legal document that outlines how a person's assets will be distributed after their death. It allows an individual to decide who will receive their property and who will be in charge of distributing it. Consequences of dying without a will If a person dies without a will, it means they have died "intestate." When this happens, the state will determine how the person's assets will be distributed. This process is known as proba...