If you die without a will, you are said to have died “intestate.” In this case, your assets will be distributed according to the laws of intestacy. These laws vary depending on the laws of the country or state where you live, but generally, they provide that your assets will be distributed to your closest living relatives.
For example, in the UK, if you are married or in a civil partnership and have children, your spouse or civil partner will typically inherit your entire estate. If you are not married or in a civil partnership and have children, your children will typically inherit your entire estate. If you do not have a spouse, civil partner, or children, your parents will inherit your estate. If your parents are also deceased, your siblings will inherit your estate. If you do not have any living relatives, your estate will pass to the Crown.
If you die without a will, the process of distributing your assets will be dictated by the laws of intestacy, which may not reflect your wishes. Having a will can help to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and can help to avoid disputes among your loved ones.
