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Wills, trusts, and estates

decedent

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 West Virginia, as in other states, the term 'decedent' refers to an individual who has passed away. The legal matters concerning a decedent's estate are governed by the West Virginia Code, particularly in the areas of wills, trusts, and estates. When a person dies, their assets and liabilities must be managed and distributed according to the law. If the decedent had a valid will, the estate will be distributed according to its terms under the supervision of the probate court. If there is no will, the decedent is said to have died 'intestate,' and state intestacy laws will determine how the estate is divided among surviving relatives. The West Virginia Code provides specific rules for both testate (with a will) and intestate (without a will) succession, and addresses the appointment of personal representatives, the probate process, and the rights of heirs and beneficiaries.

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Wills, trusts, and estates

decedent

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West-Virginia State Code

West-Virginia State Code

Wills, trusts, and estates

decedent

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