When a person dies without a will, it is known as dying "intestate". In such cases, the courts will use a legal formula to determine who receives the deceased person's assets. 

This formula is laid down by intestacy laws and is inflexible. If you die without a will, you will not have any say in who manages your estate or who is appointed as a guardian for your children if they are under the age of eighteen (18). 

In the absence of a will, any family member can apply to the court to obtain letters of administration. This gives them legal authority as your executor and allows them to administer your estate.

If you get married after making a Will, it is usually revoked or even canceled. This only applies if the Will was made anticipating marriage. 

Divorced spouses can only have their gifts revoked or canceled if they divorce after making a Will. This also cancels the appointment of your spouse as executor, trustee or Guardian in the will. This will not apply, however, if the Court finds that the Will maker did not intend to revoke a gift or appointment by divorcing. 

You should consult our team if you want to change your Will, or if your marital situation changes.

It is essential to locate old Wills to collect them, destroy them, or notify the holders that a new Will was made and they no longer need their services.