A decedent (pronounced da-See-dunt) is a deceased person. This term is commonly used to refer to a deceased person in the law of wills, trusts, and estates.
In Colorado, the term 'decedent' refers to an individual who has passed away. In the context of wills, trusts, and estates law, the decedent is the person whose estate is being managed or distributed after their death. Colorado law, under the Colorado Probate Code, outlines the procedures for handling a decedent's estate, including the appointment of a personal representative (executor), the payment of debts and taxes, and the distribution of the decedent's assets to heirs or beneficiaries. If the decedent had a will, the estate will be distributed according to the terms of the will, as long as it complies with state law. If there is no will, or the will is deemed invalid, the estate will be distributed according to Colorado's intestacy laws, which determine heirship based on familial relationships.