The Intestates’ Estates and Property Charges Act is a crucial law in Jamaica that governs the distribution of a deceased person’s property when they die without leaving a will (intestate). This guide will break down the key elements of the act in simple terms so that anyone can understand how it works and what to expect if they are dealing with an intestate estate.
What is Intestacy?
Intestacy occurs when someone dies without leaving a valid will. In this case, their property (known as their “estate”) is distributed according to a set of legal rules, rather than according to their wishes. The Intestates’ Estates and Property Charges Act outlines how this process works in Jamaica.
Who Handles the Estate?
If someone dies without a will, the estate can be administered by:
The Administrator-General: If the deceased leaves behind minor children or no personal representative, the Administrator-General steps in.
A Personal Representative: This could be a family member or close relative who applies…
