Does a surviving spouse have any rights to an intestate estate when there is a will?

In Minnesota, a surviving spouse does have certain rights to an intestate estate when there is a will present. This is true even if the will is silent on the issue. According to Minnesota intestate succession law, a surviving spouse has a statutory right to a share of the intestate estate, regardless of the terms of the will. This right is known as an election against the will and allows the surviving spouse to take a certain percentage of the estate. The amount the surviving spouse is eligible to receive depends on the other heirs of the deceased person. If the deceased person had children, the surviving spouse is entitled to receive one-half of the share of the estate that the children would have received if the person had died intestate. If the deceased person did not have children, then the surviving spouse is entitled to receive the entire intestate estate. In addition, the surviving spouse has the right to choose between taking their share of the intestate estate or taking whatever the deceased person left them in the will. This right is known as the right of election and allows the surviving spouse to choose the option that is more beneficial to them. Ultimately, a surviving spouse in Minnesota does have the right to receive a share of an intestate estate when there is a will present. This right is in place to protect the surviving spouse and ensure that they are taken care of in the event of the death of their spouse.

Related FAQs

How do creditors get paid in an intestate estate?
What is the process for determining an intestate estate?
How do state laws of intestacy apply to same-sex couples?
How do state laws determine who inherits an estate if there is no will?
Can an intestate succession be challenged on the basis of undue influence?
Is there a limit to the amount of inheritance tax due on an intestate estate?
How is an intestate estate divided among the surviving heirs?
Does an intestate succession require probate court approval?
Are there any restrictions on how an intestate succession can be challenged?
What taxes and expenses must be paid out of an intestate estate?

Related Blog Posts

Understanding Intestate Succession Law: A Comprehensive Guide - July 31, 2023
What is Intestate Succession Law and How Does it Impact Inheritance? - August 7, 2023
Intestate Succession Law: How Can It Protect Your Estate? - August 14, 2023
Navigating Intestate Succession Law: Tips for a Smooth Process - August 21, 2023
What Outcomes Can Occur Based on Intestate Succession Law? - August 28, 2023