Property OwnershipIntermediateNorth Carolina Exam

Under NC law, 'intestate succession' determines how property passes when a person dies:

AWith a valid will

BWithout a willCorrect

CThrough a trust

DVia a joint tenancy

Why Without a will Is Correct

Answer B: Without a will

Intestate succession laws govern how a decedent's property is distributed when they die without a valid will, following the order of heirs established by NC General Statutes.

Exam Tip: Property Ownership

Property ownership questions test the bundle of rights and different forms of ownership. Know the differences between joint tenancy, tenancy in common, and community property, including the right of survivorship.

Key Property Ownership Terms in This Question

Joint Tenancy

Co-ownership where two or more people hold equal, undivided interests with the right of survivorship — when one owner dies, their share passes to the surviving owners.

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Key Terms to Know

Joint Tenancy

Co-ownership where two or more people hold equal, undivided interests with the right of survivorship — when one owner dies, their share passes to the surviving owners.

Tenancy in Common

Co-ownership where two or more people hold undivided interests that need not be equal and pass to each owner's heirs — no right of survivorship.

Deed

A written legal instrument used to transfer ownership of real property from one party (grantor) to another (grantee).

Easement

A non-possessory right to use another person's land for a specific purpose.