intestacy

[in-tes-tuh-see]

noun

1. the state or fact of being intestate at death.

Word History and Origins

Origin of intestacy¹

First recorded in 1760–70; intest(ate) + -acy

Example Sentences

If you don’t have a will — called “dying intestate” — your assets are distributed by a probate court according to your state’s laws of intestacy.

Read more on Seattle Times

Who inherits the assets, including any property, if an heir dies before the parent depends upon intestacy statutes, which vary by state.

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Last month it emerged that the musician Prince died without a will - a situation known as intestacy.

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In legal terms, if you die “intestate,” your state’s intestacy laws dictate how your assets will be distributed.

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Married same-sex couples will also have the right to inherit property under a state’s intestacy statute that kicks in if there’s no will.

Read more on Forbes