Michigan's inheritance laws without a will, also known as intestate succession laws, determine how a deceased person's assets and property will be distributed if they did not leave a valid will. These laws are crucial in situations where no formal estate planning has taken place. In Michigan, there are specific statutory provisions in place to address intestate succession. These laws aim to ensure fair distribution of assets and property among the deceased person's surviving family members. The applicable laws are governed by the Michigan Compiled Laws, specifically Chapter 700 — Estates and Protected Individuals Code. When a person passes away without a will in Michigan, the intestate succession laws prioritize the deceased person's closest family members, typically beginning with the surviving spouse. It is important to note that the laws may differ depending on whether the deceased person had children, parents, or other close relatives at the time of their passing. If the deceased person was married but had no children, the surviving spouse will inherit the entire estate. Conversely, if they were married but had children (either from the current marriage or previous relationships), the surviving spouse will receive a portion of the estate, while the rest will be divided among the children. In situations where the deceased person was unmarried or widowed with no children, the inheritance will pass to their parents (if living). If the parents have already passed away, the estate will be divided equally among the deceased person's siblings. If there are no parents or siblings, the inheritance will continue in a predetermined order to more distant relatives, such as nieces, nephews, or cousins. It is essential to understand that Michigan's intestate succession laws only apply to assets and property that would have passed through a will. Certain assets, such as jointly owned property, life insurance proceeds with designated beneficiaries, or assets held in a trust, may pass directly to the designated beneficiaries outside these laws. In cases where no eligible relatives can be located, the estate will Scheat to the State of Michigan, meaning that the government becomes the legal owner of the deceased person's property and assets. In summary, Michigan inheritance laws without a will, or intestate succession laws, determine the distribution of assets and property when an individual passes away without a valid will. These laws prioritize the surviving spouse, children, parents, and other close relatives in a specific order. Understanding these laws and seeking legal advice is crucial to ensure the proper distribution of assets and property according to the deceased person's wishes.