The rules of intestacy – what happens if I die without a will?

Death is an inevitable part of life, and while it’s not something anyone likes to dwell on, it’s crucial to consider what happens to your assets and affairs after you’re gone. One essential aspect of this planning is creating a will—a legal document that outlines your wishes regarding the distribution of your property and assets. However, not everyone takes the time to draft a will, whether due to procrastination, a belief that they don’t have enough assets to warrant one or simply not wanting to confront their mortality.

Join us as we navigate the intricacies of the rules of intestacy and uncover the importance of estate planning. Whether you’re considering drafting your will or simply seeking to understand the implications of dying without one, this exploration will provide valuable insights into a topic that affects us all.

What does dying intestate mean?

Dying without a Will is called dying intestate. Under the rules of intestacy there are strict legal orders of who can apply to be the administrator in an instate estate. The law also determines who inherits your assets and what proportion of them. This means that it may not necessarily be the people you would wish for to do this. Administering the estate incorrectly can be very costly so you should always seek professional advice.

Dying intestate can also cause complications for those dealing with your estate. It means your wishes will not be known and so not necessarily met.

How can Taylor Bracewell’s Wills, Probate & Trusts team assist you?

If you do not have a will in place already or believe that your will may need updating, then our experienced Wills, Probate and Trusts team can help. Alternatively, if a loved one has died intestate and you need assistance with the rules of intestacy our experienced probate solicitors are on hand to help. Call our Doncaster solicitors on 01302 341414 or our Sheffield solicitors on 0114 272 1884. Alternatively, you can fill out our online enquiry form.