Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Devolve: When someone passes away, they may leave behind things like money, a house, or other belongings. Sometimes, these things automatically go to someone else without anyone having to do anything. This is called devolve. For example, if a grandparent passes away and leaves their house to their children, the house devolves to the children without them having to do anything to get it. Devolve happens without anyone making a choice or doing something on purpose.
Definition: Devolve is a legal term that means property is transferred from one person to another without any action from the previous owner. This usually happens when someone inherits property from a family member who has passed away.
For example, if your grandfather passes away and leaves you his house in his will, the property will devolve to you. This means that you will become the new owner of the house without having to do anything to transfer the ownership.
Another example of devolve is when a person dies without a will. In this case, their property will devolve to their closest living relatives according to the laws of the state where they lived.
Devolve is different from a voluntary transfer of property, such as selling a house or giving a gift. It happens automatically and without any action from the previous owner.