What does the term testate mean?

The term "testate" specifically refers to a situation where an individual has died and left a valid will. This means that the deceased person's wishes regarding the distribution of their property and assets are documented in a legally recognized manner. A will serves to direct how the individual's estate should be managed and distributed after death, providing clarity for heirs and beneficiaries.

When a person passes away testate, their estate typically goes through the probate process, during which the will is validated, and the executor designated in the will is authorized to carry out the deceased's wishes. Understanding the concept of being testate is essential in real estate and estate planning because it highlights the importance of having a will in place to ensure that an individual's assets are allocated according to their desires.