Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Definition: A person who is entitled to receive the property of a deceased person according to the laws of intestacy (when there is no will). This person is also known as a legal heir, heir at law, lawful heir, heir general, or legitimate heir.
Examples: If someone dies without a will, their property will be distributed to their heirs according to the laws of intestacy. For example, if a person dies without a will and is survived by their spouse and children, their property will be divided among their spouse and children. The spouse will receive a portion of the property, and the remaining property will be divided equally among the children.
Explanation: The term "heir general" refers to a person who inherits property according to the laws of intestacy. This means that if a person dies without a will, their property will be distributed to their heirs according to the laws of the state where they lived. The examples illustrate how the property of a deceased person is distributed among their heirs according to the laws of intestacy.