Rules on intestate
A person who dies without leaving a will is called an intestate person and there are rules that dictate how assets will be shared.
Only married or civil partners and some other close relatives can inherit under the rules of intestacy.
On an intestacy, who inherits what depends on which of your relatives is alive at your death, and how large your estate is. Spouses may not receive everything and friends, and unmarried partners will not be included.
October 5, 2013