The decedent refers to an individual who has passed away. This term is frequently used in legal contexts, particularly in estate planning, probate, and trust administration, to denote the person whose estate is being managed or settled.
In estate planning, the decedent is central to the process of distributing assets, paying off debts, and addressing any tax obligations. The decedent’s last will and testament, if one exists, outlines how their property and assets should be distributed among heirs and beneficiaries. If no will is present, the decedent’s estate will typically be settled according to the laws of intestate succession in the relevant jurisdiction.
In the context of probate, the decedent‘s estate enters a legal process where a court supervises the distribution of the decedent’s assets. This process involves validating the will, appointing an executor or administrator, and ensuring that all debts and taxes are paid before distributions are made to beneficiaries.
For example, if a Houston resident passes away and leaves behind real estate, bank accounts, and personal property, the individual handling the estate will refer to the deceased as the decedent throughout the probate proceedings to identify and manage the estate’s assets.
Understanding the term decedent is crucial for anyone involved in estate management, as it sets the foundation for all subsequent legal actions related to the deceased individual’s estate.
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