Decedent Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Decedent, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Decedent?

History and Meaning of Decedent

The term "decedent" is commonly used in legal contexts to refer to a person who has passed away. In the legal profession, this term is used to describe the person who has died, regardless of whether or not they had a will, letter of wishes or any other documents listed as wishes upon passing.

Examples of Decedent

1. The decedent's estate was distributed among the surviving family members according to his will.
2. The court appointed an administrator to handle the affairs of the decedent's estate due to lack of will.
3. The decedent's medical history will be reviewed to determine the cause of death in the autopsy report.
4. The decedent's life insurance policy will be used to fund his children's education.
5. The decedent's property was sold off to fund the outstanding debts of the estate.

Legal Terms Similar to Decedent

• Testator: A person who dies leaving a valid will or someone who makes a will.
• Intestate: A person who has died without a valid will or who has left an invalid will.
• Beneficiary: A person who will legally receive or is entitled to receive something from the decedent's estate.