Understanding Ademption by Extinction: What It Means for Your Will

Q: Can I replace a bequeathed item with a similar one?

Generally, ademption by extinction applies to specific items. Replacing a bequest with a similar item may not fulfill the original intent.

Q: How can I ensure my bequests are honored?

Regularly review and update your will to reflect any changes in property ownership or your wishes.

Definition & Meaning

Ademption by extinction occurs when a testator, the person who creates a will, bequeaths specific property but no longer owns that property at the time of their death. This situation invalidates the bequest, meaning the intended recipient will not receive the property. For example, if a testator leaves a specific diamond necklace to a niece but sells the necklace before they pass away, the bequest is considered adeemed by extinction because the property is no longer part of the testator's estate.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

This term is primarily used in estate planning and probate law. It is relevant when discussing how specific bequests are handled after a testator's death. Understanding ademption by extinction is crucial for individuals creating wills, as it affects the distribution of their assets. Users can utilize legal templates from US Legal Forms to draft their wills, ensuring clarity on how specific bequests are managed.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A testator bequeaths a specific car to a friend. If the testator sells the car before passing away, the bequest is adeemed by extinction.

Example 2: A testator leaves a piece of land to a relative, but the land is sold or significantly altered before the testator's death. The relative will not receive the land due to ademption by extinction.

State-by-state differences

State	Notes
California	Follows the general principle of ademption by extinction; specific bequests are void if the property is not owned at death.
New York	Similar rules apply; however, if the property is replaced with a similar item, the bequest may still be honored.
Texas	Ademption by extinction is recognized, but courts may consider the intent of the testator.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Difference
Ademption by Extinction	Invalidation of a bequest when the property is no longer owned by the testator.	Specific to property that is sold or lost before death.
Ademption by Satisfaction	When a testator gives the intended recipient a gift during their lifetime, satisfying the bequest.	Involves gifts given before death, rather than property loss.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe ademption by extinction may affect your will, consider reviewing your estate plan. It's essential to ensure that your bequests are clear and that you understand how changes in ownership can impact them. Users can explore US Legal Forms for templates to create or modify their wills. If your situation is complex, consulting a legal professional is advisable.

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Quick facts

Ademption by extinction applies to specific property bequests.
It invalidates the bequest if the property is not owned at death.
State laws may vary in how they handle ademption.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I sell a property I left in my will?

If you sell the property before your death, the bequest is considered adeemed by extinction, and the recipient will not receive it.