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Wills, trusts, and estates

decedent

A decedent (pronounced da-See-dunt) is a deceased person. This term is commonly used to refer to a deceased person in the law of wills, trusts, and estates.

In Illinois, the term 'decedent' refers to an individual who has passed away. The legal matters concerning a decedent's estate are governed by the Illinois Probate Act. This Act outlines the procedures for administering a decedent's estate, whether they died testate (with a will) or intestate (without a will). The estate administration process includes the validation of the will, if one exists, the appointment of an executor or administrator, the inventory and appraisal of the estate's assets, the payment of debts and taxes, and the distribution of the remaining assets to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries. If the decedent did not leave a will, the distribution of assets is carried out according to the state's intestacy laws, which determine heirship based on the decedent's surviving relatives. Additionally, trusts and other estate planning tools may also be involved in managing and distributing a decedent's assets outside of the probate process.

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Wills, trusts, and estates

decedent

As a LegalFix Member You Will Be an Important Client of Local Law Firms

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Illinois State Code

Illinois State Code

Wills, trusts, and estates

decedent

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