What is the legal term for the situation where a property owner dies without leaving a valid will?

The term used to describe the situation where a property owner dies without leaving a valid will is "intestate." When a person dies intestate, their estate is settled according to the laws of intestacy, which dictate how the deceased’s assets are distributed among surviving relatives and heirs. This legal framework is essential to ensure that the deceased's assets are managed and distributed properly when there are no explicit instructions provided through a will.

Understanding the differences among the terms can clarify why "intestate" is the appropriate choice. "Testate," for instance, refers to a scenario where an individual has died leaving a will that dictates how their estate should be distributed. "Escheat" pertains to the process where property reverts to the state when no heirs can be identified to inherit it. "Probate" is the legal process through which a will is validated and the deceased’s estate is administered, but it specifically applies when there is a will in place. Thus, "intestate" accurately captures the absence of a will when a property owner dies, guiding the intestate succession laws that come into play.