If the decedent died without a will, what is the classification of the estate?

When an individual passes away without a will, the legal classification of their estate is termed "intestate." This means that the person has not left behind any instructions for the distribution of their assets, leading to the application of state laws to determine how the estate should be divided among heirs. The laws of intestate succession establish the order of inheritance, typically prioritizing relatives such as spouses, children, and parents.

In contrast, "testate" refers to situations where a decedent has made a will, indicating their desires regarding asset distribution. "Probate" pertains to the legal process that validates a will and oversees the distribution of an estate, regardless of whether it is testate or intestate. "Judicial" does not directly apply to the classification of an estate but rather might reference court procedures involving legal matters. Therefore, the classification of an estate for a person who dies without a will is accurately identified as intestate.