What is the term for dying without a last will and testament?

The term for dying without a last will and testament is "intestate." When a person passes away intestate, it means that there is no legal document outlining their wishes regarding the distribution of their assets, guardianship of dependents, or funeral arrangements. As a result, the state law dictates how the deceased's estate will be divided among surviving family members and creditors, according to established statutory guidelines.

In contrast, being "testate" refers to a person who has died with a valid will in place. An "administrator" refers to an individual appointed to manage the estate of someone who has died intestate, and "probate" is the legal process through which a deceased person's will is validated and their estate is managed and distributed. Understanding these terms is crucial in the field of mortuary science, as they relate to estate management and the legal responsibilities that come into play upon a person's death.