What are the laws governing intestate succession in each state?

The laws governing intestate succession in Washington are similar to those in other states. Generally, if an individual dies without leaving a valid will, the intestate succession laws in the state control who is entitled to the deceased’s assets. In Washington, these laws are set out by the state’s probate code. In Washington, when a person dies without a valid will, their assets are distributed to their closest living relatives in the following order of priority: spouses, children, grandchildren, parents, brothers and sisters, uncles and aunts, first cousins, and finally the state. If the deceased had a spouse but no children, then the spouse will receive the entirety of the assets. If the deceased had children but no spouse, then their children will receive the assets in equal portions. If the deceased had both a spouse and children, then the spouse will receive a portion of the assets, while the children will receive the remainder in equal portions. If the deceased had no living relatives, then all of their assets will pass to the state. Each state has different rules regarding specific situations, so it is advisable to contact an attorney in Washington if you are unsure about the intestate succession laws.

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What are the laws governing intestate succession in each state?

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