What is the term for someone who dies without having a valid will?

The term for someone who dies without having a valid will is "intestate." When an individual passes away intestate, they have not legally specified how their assets should be distributed, leading to their estate being subject to intestacy laws. These laws dictate how the deceased's estate will be divided among surviving relatives, typically favoring spouses, children, and other close kin. The significance of this term lies in its implications for estate planning and probate processes, as the distribution of the estate will occur without the deceased's explicit wishes being adhered to.

In contrast, terms like "heir," "probate," and "executor" signify different aspects of estate management. An heir refers to an individual entitled to inherit the deceased's estate, probate is the legal process of administering estates to validate wills and distribute assets, and an executor is a person appointed to carry out the duties of a will. Understanding these distinctions enhances comprehension regarding estate management and the ramifications of dying intestate.