Intestacy

usgb/ɪnˈtestəsi/
noun

The condition of not having a legal will when a person dies.

After John's sudden death, his estate went into intestacy because he did not leave a will.
Visual representation of "intestacy" - The condition of not having a legal will when a person dies.

Often appears as...

  • die in intestacy
  • rules of intestacy

Usage tips

Formal

Technical

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "intestacy"
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Legal Consequences

Understand that intestacy triggers a legal process where laws decide who inherits the estate.

Illustration for Legal Consequences
Because he died intestate, government rules determined his heirs.
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Unexpected Situations

Often associated with sudden deaths where the deceased did not plan their estate.

Illustration for Unexpected Situations
Her untimely accident led to intestacy, causing family disputes over her assets.
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Heir Uncertainty

Intestacy can cause uncertainty among potential heirs about their entitlements.

Illustration for Heir Uncertainty
The siblings faced intestacy with no idea who would inherit the family home.
Visual representation of the word "Intestacy"

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