In Georgia, as in other states, the laws of intestacy take place when someone passes away without a valid will or estate plan. Intestacy laws determine how the deceased person’s assets are distributed among their heirs. While it is always advisable to have a will in place, understanding Georgia’s intestacy laws is crucial in case circumstances lead to intestate succession.
Key Aspects of Georgia’s Laws of Intestacy:
- Spousal Inheritance: If the deceased person is survived by a spouse but no children, the spouse typically inherits the entire estate.
- Spouse and Children: If there is a surviving spouse and children, the spouse usually receives a portion of the estate, with the remaining assets distributed among the children.
- No Surviving Spouse: In the absence of a surviving spouse, the deceased person’s children inherit the estate.
- No Spouse or Children: If there are no surviving spouse or children, the estate may go to the deceased person’s parents or the estate may pass to more distant relatives or even to the state itself, depending on the specific family situation.
It is important to note that intestacy laws do not consider personal preferences or individual circumstances, and assets may not be distributed according to your wishes. For example, if you are estranged from your spouse but have not legally gotten divorced, they may still inherit your assets in accordance with the laws of intestacy. To ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, it is essential to create a will.
Why Estate Planning Matters:
While Georgia’s laws of intestacy provide a default framework for asset distribution, it may not align with your desires. Estate planning allows you to take control of your assets and decide how they should be distributed. Creating a will and other estate planning documents enables you to:
- Designate beneficiaries of your choice.
- Appoint guardians for minor children.
- Minimize the impact of estate taxes.
Grissom Law Firm, LLC: Your Estate Planning Partner:
At Grissom Law Firm, LLC, our estate planning attorneys specialize in helping individuals and families in Georgia with their estate planning needs. Whether you need to draft a will, create trusts, or navigate complex legal matters, our experienced estate planning attorneys are here to guide you through the process. By working with us, you can ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and minimize potential complications associated with intestacy laws.
Don’t leave your legacy to chance. Contact Grissom Law Firm, LLC today to discuss your estate planning goals and take control of your financial future.
Disclaimer
This Blog/Web Site is made available for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide legal advice. By using this blog site you understand that there is no attorney client relationship between you and Grissom Law, LLC.