What does it mean if a person dies intestate?

When a person dies intestate, it signifies that they have passed away without a legally binding will in place to dictate how their estate should be distributed. In such cases, the laws of intestacy will govern the allocation of the deceased's assets, often directing distribution to surviving relatives according to predetermined statutory schemes. This process may vary by jurisdiction but typically prioritizes family members such as spouses, children, parents, and siblings.

The other options do not accurately describe the situation of dying intestate; for instance, leaving a will clearly contradicts the notion of dying intestate. Similarly, having outstanding debts or a living trust does not pertain to the specifics of intestacy, which is solely focused on the absence of a will. The distinction is crucial in the field of estate planning and law, emphasizing the importance of having an up-to-date will to ensure that one's wishes are honored after death.