What Happens When a Loved One Dies Without a Will? A Real-Life Look at Heirship
Name has been changed to protect client privacy.

Losing a loved one is hard enough. But when they pass away without a will, things can quickly become confusing and stressful for the family left behind. That’s where the legal process of Determination of Heirship comes into play—and it can make all the difference.

Case Spotlight: Maria’s Story

Maria was devastated when her father passed away unexpectedly. He had worked hard his whole life, owned a modest home, maintained several bank accounts, and had some valuable personal belongings. But like many people, he never got around to creating a will.

As his only child, Maria assumed she would naturally inherit everything. But when she tried to access his accounts and transfer ownership of the home, she hit a wall. Without a will, the assets couldn’t legally be transferred to her without going through the court.

That’s when Maria reached out to The Barger Law Firm, PLLC.

How We Helped

We guided Maria through the Determination of Heirship process—a court proceeding required to identify and legally establish heirs when someone dies intestate (without a will). We gathered important documents, filed the necessary applications, and presented evidence showing that Maria was her father’s sole heir.

After the court’s ruling, Maria was able to take legal ownership of the estate, giving her the peace of mind she needed to move forward while honoring her father’s memory.

Why This Matters

When someone dies without a will, the state—not the family—decides who inherits what. This can lead to delays, disputes, and added emotional strain during an already difficult time.

Determination of Heirship protects your rights, clarifies legal ownership, and ensures assets don’t remain in limbo. It’s especially important when:

• There is no will
• Property needs to be legally transferred
• There are multiple or unclear heirs
• 
  

Let Us Help You Move Forward

At The Barger Law Firm, PLLC, we’re here to help families navigate the legal complexities of heirship with compassion and care. If you’re facing a similar situation, don’t wait. Contact us today to discuss your options and take the first step toward resolving your loved one’s estate.