What is the status of having a last will and testament at the time of death?

When a person has a last will and testament at the time of their death, they are said to be in a "testate" status. This signifies that the individual has made legal arrangements regarding the distribution of their assets and the management of their affairs after their death through a formal written document. The presence of a valid will demonstrates the deceased's wishes regarding the allocation of their estate, guardianship of any minor children, and other important decisions.

In a testate situation, the will typically goes through the probate process, which is a legal procedure to validate the will and ensure that the assets are distributed according to the deceased's wishes. This is a structured process overseen by a court, and it often involves the appointment of an executor—an individual named in the will to carry out those wishes. Understanding the implications of being testate is crucial for comprehending estate planning and the responsibilities involved in managing someone's estate after they pass away.