What is intestate succession?

Intestate succession is a process in wills and probate law in Washington that outlines what happens to a person’s estate if they die without a valid will. In Washington, when someone dies without a will, their estate is divided according to the Washington intestacy laws. This means that the estate is distributed to any surviving family members such as children, parents, or other heirs based on state statutes. The distribution of assets is based around the closest relatives and descendants of the decedent. In Washington, any assets or property owned by the decedent that has not been gifted to someone else or placed in a trust before their death, is subject to the intestate succession laws. This includes bank accounts, real estate, stocks, vehicles, and any other assets. Generally, the surviving spouse or registered domestic partner of the deceased person will be the first in line to receive the estate; however, this is not the case if the estate is worth more than $275,000. In this case, the property will be distributed among the decedent’s children or other surviving relatives. Intestate succession is important to pick up the pieces and ensure that surviving family members are taken care of after the death of a loved one. It is important to review the intestate succession laws in Washington if you do not have a valid will in place.

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What is intestate succession?

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