What happens to the estate if the decedent died intestate (leaving no will)?

Where there is no will, the process is basically the same but uses different terminology. An Administrator is appointed pursuant to the Intestate Succession laws. The Register of Wills Grants Letters of Administration. The decedent's estate is then distributed according to a formula which is also set forth by law. These "intestacy" laws name the beneficiaries and the amount to which they are entitled. Contrary to the scare tactics of modern advertisements, the state does not take your assets.

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1. Do you have my will on file?
2. If I am named in a will as Executor, what do I need to do?
3. How do I get a short certificate?
4. What documents and persons are required to probate a will?
5. Can I probate anywhere I want?
6. Will you help me to probate / administer this estate?
7. What happens to the estate if the decedent died intestate (leaving no will)?
8. Can any distribution be made without probate and grant of letters or a judicial decision (Orphans' Court)?
9. What are the filing requisites for estates?
10. What are the filing requisites for Orphans' Court?