What does the term "testate" indicate?

The term "testate" refers to an individual who has died while having a valid legal will in place. This means that the deceased individual made arrangements for the distribution of their assets and appointed an executor to carry out those wishes after their death. A testate individual’s estate is managed according to the directions specified in their will, which typically provides clarity regarding beneficiaries and the handling of the estate's various assets.

Understanding the implications of being testate is crucial in the context of estate planning and probate processes, as it ensures that the deceased's preferences are honored and that the distribution occurs lawfully, aligning with state regulations and requirements. While other terms like "intestate" denote the absence of a will, the focus here is firmly on the presence of legal documentation guiding the distribution of the estate, which is a defining feature of being testate.