Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Washington

Re: No will

That is a pretty vague question but I'll assume you are interested in the immediate impact on the children and the ultimate distribution of the estate assets.

Typically, the assets of the decedent's estate are distributed to his heirs under intestate succession. The state has provided an order of distribution of assets of a decedent in the event no Will was executed under Chapter 11 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). If there is no spouse the decedent's children would likely receive the estate assets.

If the children are minors a guardian will have to be appointed to care for the children and the assets until such time as the children turn 18 years of age.

A properly drafted Will can ease the process of distribution of estate assets and appointment of a guardian.