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 North Carolina, the term 'decedent' refers to an individual who has passed away. In the context of wills, trusts, and estate law, the decedent is the person whose estate is being managed or distributed after their death. North Carolina General Statutes (NCGS) Chapter 28A outlines the administration of estates, including the appointment of personal representatives to manage the decedent's affairs, the process for probating wills, and the rules for intestate succession (distribution of assets when there is no will). The estate of the decedent is subject to various procedures to ensure that debts are paid and the remaining assets are distributed to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries as per the decedent's will or state law if there is no will.