Classes of People Who Inherit from a Deceased Person’s Estate

The distribution of a deceased person’s estate is governed by specific laws and regulations. The rules of inheritance can vary significantly depending on whether the deceased left a valid will or not. The following provides an overview of the classes of people who stand to inherit from a deceased person’s estate under both testate (with a will) and intestate (without a will) circumstances.

Inheritance Under a Will (Testate Succession)

When a person dies leaving a valid will, their estate is distributed according to their wishes as set out in the will. The primary classes of beneficiaries often include:

• Spouse or Civil Partner
• Children
• Other Relatives
• Friends and Non-Relatives
• Charities and Organisations
• Executors and Trustees

Inheritance Without a Will (Intestate Succession)

If a person dies without leaving a valid will, their estate is distributed according to the rules of intestacy as outlined in the Administration of Estates Act 1925 and the Inheritance and Trustees' Powers Act 2014. The classes of people who stand to inherit in such cases are as follows:

• Spouse or Civil Partner
• Children
• Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren
• Parents
• Siblings
• Half-Siblings
• Grandparents
• Aunts and Uncles
• The Crown

Jointly Owned Property

Property owned jointly with others may automatically pass to the surviving co-owners, depending on the type of joint ownership (e.g., joint tenancy).

Understanding the classes of people who can inherit is essential for proper estate planning and distribution. If you are looking to create a will, you may contact us to ensure your wishes are clearly documented and legally binding. For beneficiaries and executors, seeking our advice is crucial for understanding these rules and ensuring the fair and lawful administration of an estate.