What happens if someone dies without a will?

When an individual dies without a will, the distribution of their assets is governed by state intestacy laws. These laws dictate how the estate will be divided among the deceased's relatives, typically starting with the spouse and children, and then extending to other relatives if there are no immediate family members.

Intestacy laws aim to ensure that the deceased's assets are distributed fairly according to the familial relationships recognized by the state. This process often involves appointing an administrator to handle the estate's affairs and to distribute the assets according to the intestacy statutes.

This approach to distribution is crucial because it provides a clear legal framework to follow in the absence of a will, thereby preventing potential disputes among family members and ensuring that the assets are passed down in a structured manner. In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the legal consequences of dying intestate, as they misrepresent how assets are handled in such circumstances.