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 New York, the term 'decedent' refers to an individual who has passed away. The legal matters concerning a decedent's estate are governed by the New York Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL) and the Surrogate's Court Procedure Act (SCPA). When a person dies, their assets become part of their estate, which is then distributed according to their will, if one exists. If the decedent died intestate (without a will), the distribution of their estate is handled according to New York's intestacy laws. The Surrogate's Court in New York has jurisdiction over the probate of wills and the administration of estates, including appointing an executor or administrator to manage the decedent's estate, ensuring debts and taxes are paid, and distributing the remaining assets to the rightful beneficiaries.