What indicates that a person died testate?

Prepare for the Missouri Title Insurance Producer Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Evaluate your readiness with hints and explanations provided for each question.

A person is considered to have died testate when they have left a valid will that specifies how their property and assets should be distributed after their death. The presence of a will provides clear instructions regarding the decedent's wishes, ensuring that their estate is handled according to their intentions. This legal document serves as a key element in the estate administration process, allowing the executor to manage the estate in accordance with the testator's directives.

The existence of a will is fundamental in determining testacy, as it distinguishes between those who have made clear provisions for their estate and those who have not. A will is essential for facilitating a smooth probate process, as it outlines the decedent’s desires regarding the distribution of assets, payment of debts, and care for any minor children, among other considerations.

In contrast, the absence of a will indicates that a person died intestate, meaning state laws will dictate the distribution of their estate. A legally binding contract may pertain to various legal aspects of property or agreements but does not signify the deceased's wishes regarding their estate. Likewise, filing a probate claim is an administrative step taken to initiate the probate process, which may occur regardless of whether the deceased died testate or intestate. Thus, the correct answer highlights the

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