If someone dies without a will, it is known as dying “intestate.” When this happens, the deceased person’s assets will be distributed according to the laws of intestate succession, which generally means the assets will be given to the person’s closest relatives, such as their spouse or children. However, the specific rules for intestate succession can vary depending on whether the assets are community property or separate property, so it’s important to consult with an attorney to determine the character of the deceased person’s assets before assuming who is entitled to inherit them.