Either because a Will has not been put in place or updated or not formally signed and stored. Without this in place, Intestate Succession Rules will apply and, potentially, the involvement of the Guardian Fund where minor beneficiaries are involved.

 This does not mean that your Estate does not have value but it may mean that there is insufficient cash to cover the liabilities and costs associated with winding up an Estate. If this is the case, heirs often have to provide for the cash required which places a significant burden on them. In most circumstances this is not possible and ultimately your estate’s assets may need to be force sold which goes against your wishes and, more importantly, at a potential loss in value.