Does intestate succession differ between states?

Yes, intestate succession does differ between states. Intestate succession law governs how property passes to a person’s heirs when they die without a valid will. The laws vary by state, though there are some general similarities. In Washington, if a person dies without a valid will, the laws of intestate succession spell out who will inherit the property. Generally, the surviving spouse will get all of the real property, some of the personal property, and a portion of the remaining estate, depending on the size of the estate and whether there are children of the marriage. If there is no surviving spouse, the estate passes to the children, or their descendants if the children are deceased. If there are no children, it passes to the parents. If there are no parents, it passes to the siblings or their descendants. If there are no siblings, it passes to the grandparents, or their descendants if the grandparents are deceased. In contrast, some other states may split the estate different amounts between the surviving spouse and other relatives, such as the children or parents. Some states may also give different amounts to different family members depending on the size of the estate. Overall, intestate succession laws vary from state to state. Knowing the laws of the state you live in can help you understand what will happen to your estate if you pass away without a valid will.

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Does intestate succession differ between states?

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