What Happens If You Die Without a Will?

The Glamorous Truth About the Not-So-Glamorous Costs of Dying Intestate

Darling, let’s talk about something that’s not so sparkly—but oh-so-important: your will. We all love to plan our dream vacations, design fabulous homes, and build generational wealth, but what about planning for the inevitable? Yes, we're talking about that final curtain call—and what happens if you haven’t left your script behind.

If you pass away without a will, you don’t just leave your designer shoes behind—you leave a legal mess that even your fiercest glam squad can’t fix. This legal mess is called dying intestate—and trust us, it’s not cute.

What Exactly Is Dying Intestate?

In glam terms, dying intestate means you didn’t leave a will saying who gets what. And when that happens, the state steps in—like an uninvited guest at your estate party—and decides who gets your assets, your property, your business interests, and even your personal treasures.

Let’s be honest… do you really want the court deciding who gets your Chanel collection, your investment properties, or your grandma’s heirloom pearls?

The Court Takes Center Stage

When there’s no will, the court follows state intestacy laws, which usually prioritize:

Your spouse (if married)
Your children (biological and sometimes adopted)
Then your parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, and so on…

But here's the drama: what if you’re unmarried? What if you have a blended family? What if there are estranged relatives or minor children involved? The court doesn’t consider your “wishes” or “intentions”—only the law.

Suddenly, that cousin you haven’t spoken to in 10 years might inherit a piece of your empire, while your best friend who cared for you like family? Left with nothing.

The Hidden Costs of Dying Without a Will

We’re not just talking about emotional chaos—there are financial consequences too. Without a will, your estate:

Has to go through probate (a court-supervised process that can take months… or even years)
Can rack up attorney and court fees that drain your assets
Becomes public record (yes, everyone can see your business)
Could be subject to higher taxes and delays

So while you were building wealth to leave a legacy, the courts and legal fees could be eating away at it before your loved ones ever see a dime. Not so glamorous, right?

The Emotional Toll on Your Loved Ones

Let’s get real—grief is hard enough. Now imagine your loved ones trying to figure out how to access your bank accounts, manage your property, or fight over who gets what—all while mourning your loss.

Without a clear will in place, even the most united families can fall into conflict. Arguments, misunderstandings, and broken relationships are far too common when emotions are high and legal guidance is missing.

Protect Your Legacy in Style

Creating a will is one of the most empowering things you can do—not just to protect your assets, but to protect your people. It’s an elegant way to say:

"I’ve got you—even when I’m gone."

And guess what? It doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With the right legal support (hello, LegalShield!), you can have a professionally drafted will—and even update it as life changes.

Your Life Is Glamorous—Your Legacy Should Be Too

You’ve worked hard to build a life full of love, luxury, and legacy. Don’t let intestacy laws write your final chapter. Take control of your estate, protect your loved ones, and ensure your assets go where your heart intended—not just where the law says.

Because darling, you deserve to leave behind a legacy as fabulous as your life.

ESTATE PLANNING & LEGAL PROTECTION

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