Any one with an interest in the estate. Even a debtor can file to have an estate opened.
Intestate. A person who dies without having made a will is said to be intestate. In that case the probate court will appoint an Administrator (when a petition for Administration is filed) and the estate will be distributed according to the state laws of intestacy, which can vary from state to state.
When a person dies intestate (without a will), the vehicle goes into probate with the rest of their estate, until the court determines how the deceased person's belongings will be awarded.
If there is no will then there will be no executor. When a person dies intestate, or without a will, a qualified person must petition the probate court to be appointed the administrator of the estate. That should be done as soon as possible. You should seek the advice of an attorney who specializes in probate in your area.
In all 50 US states when a person dies intestate (no will) the state probate's estate and succession laws apply. In general, the state will place the estate into trust on the behalf of the children after debts are paid off.
The best option is to retain an attorney qualified in estate and probate law. In lieu of that contact the office of the clerk of the probate court in the city or county of residence for assistance. Not much can be done until the court appoints an executor or executrix beyond securing all property to the extent possible. No funds, personal or real property should arbitrarily be sold, transferred or allowed to be taken or given to family members. When a person dies intestate (without a will) the state probate succession laws apply.
Intestate means that the deceased person did not leave a will. The estate will be administered according to the statutory provisions of intestacy of the state where that person lived.
If the decedent owned property in their name alone then their estate must be probated. A person who dies without a will who owns property is said to be intestate. See the related question below for information on intestate estates.
When a person dies intestate the distribution of assets and the payment of debts come under the jurisdiction of the state probate court. Probate laws differ in what property of the estate is exempt from seizure to pay debts. The best option would be for the involved parties to consult an attorney who is knowledgeable in the probate laws of the state where the deceased resided.
If the parent is the sole owner of any property at the time of death their estate must be probated.
Without having made a valid will; without a will; as, to die intestate., Not devised or bequeathed; not disposed of by will; as, an intestate estate., A person who dies without making a valid will.
Intestate.
When a person dies intestate (without a will) the court must appoint an Administrator to settle the estate. The court's first choice would be the surviving spouse. If they cannot serve any child can request appointment as the Administrator. The family should get together and agree on one person who has the best communication skills, organization skills, intellectual skills and integrity. You should consult with an attorney who specializes in probate law.