How is an intestate estate divided if there are no surviving relatives?

In the state of Florida, if there are no surviving relatives when the intestate estate is divided, the estate must go through a legal process known as escheat. This process requires that the courts determine the rightful ownership of the estate. After all applicable courts have ruled on the matter, the estate is then given to the state in which the decedent resided. The state will then use the assets of the estate to pay off debts or taxes owed by the decedent, and will distribute any remaining assets to the state’s general fund. This money can then be used to benefit all citizens of the state. In most cases, the state will also attempt to locate any surviving relatives of the intestate estate. If any are found, the state will then distribute the estate in accordance with the intestate succession law of the state. This process can be complicated, and it may be necessary to hire an experienced attorney to ensure that the estate is distributed properly. In summary, if there are no surviving relatives when an intestate estate is divided, the estate is typically given to the state in which the decedent resided. The state will then attempt to pay off any outstanding debts or taxes owed by the decedent, and will distribute any remaining assets to the state’s general fund. The state may also attempt to locate any surviving relatives to ensure that the estate is distributed in accordance with the intestate succession law of the state.

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How is an intestate estate divided if there are no surviving relatives?

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