Dying Intestate

Generally we deal with the estates of people who have died intestate which means they have not made a valid will. In such circumstances the law sets out who is entitled to inherit the assets of the deceased person.

In February, when a person dies without having made a Will and leaving a surviving spouse, that spouse will be entitled to the first £270,000 of the deceased’s estate (the statutory legacy).

Where an estate is worth more than £270,000, the balance of the estate is divided as to half for the surviving spouse (on top of the £270,000 statutory legacy) and half for any children of the deceased. If there are no children, or the estate is worth less than £270,000 then everything passes to the surviving spouse.

We do not offer a Will writing service although we do suggest that you make one so that your dying wishes are respected.