intestate

Definition

Dying without a valid will, leaving the state to decide who gets your stuff according to rigid formulas that probably don't match your wishes. It's the legal system's way of punishing procrastinators posthumously.

Example Usage

When the millionaire died intestate, his estranged relatives emerged from decades of silence to claim their statutory shares.

Origin

From Latin 'intestatus' meaning 'without a will,' from 'in-' (not) and 'testatus' (witnessed/attested)

Fun Fact

Intestacy laws vary by state, but generally prioritize spouses and children, meaning your longtime partner or favorite charity gets nothing without a will.

Source: Uniform Probate Code and state intestacy statutes

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