What is the procedure if a person dies without a will in Missouri?

When a person dies without a will in Missouri, the distribution of their assets is governed by the state's intestate succession laws. These laws outline a specific hierarchy for how assets are to be allocated among surviving relatives, such as spouses, children, parents, and further relatives, depending on the circumstances.

This process ensures that the deceased's assets are distributed fairly according to the relationship of the heirs rather than leaving the distribution to be determined arbitrarily or according to state claims. Intestate succession laws are designed to reflect what most individuals would likely want if they had the opportunity to make a will.

In contrast, not all assets automatically revert to the state. This only occurs in the absence of any identifiable heirs. Additionally, the division of assets is not simply equal among relatives; Missouri's laws consider the closeness of the relationship to the deceased, resulting in a more structured and equitable distribution. The appointment of an executor does occur, but typically, the court appoints an administrator for intestate estates, rather than a pre-determined executor appointed by the deceased, which is usually only relevant if there was a valid will in place.