NO WILL - WHAT HAPPENS?

If you die without a will (that is, "intestate"), California law will determine the beneficiaries of your estate. Contrary to popular myth, if you die without a will, everything does not automatically go to the state.

If you are married, your spouse receives all of your community property. Your spouse will receive part of your separate property, and the rest of your separate property will be distributed to your children or grandchildren, parents, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews or other close relatives.

If you are not married, your assets will be distributed to your children or grandchildren, if you have any -- or to your parents, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews or other close relatives. Friends or a favorite charity will receive nothing if you have no relatives and die without a will. In that case, the State of California is the beneficiary of your estate