Exploring Autre Vie: Legal Insights and Definitions

Definition & Meaning

The term autre vie refers to a legal concept meaning "for the life of another." Specifically, it describes an estate that lasts for the lifetime of a person other than the one who holds the estate, known as the devisee. This arrangement allows the property to be used or enjoyed by someone while they are alive, but it will revert back to the original owner or their heirs upon their death.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Here are a couple of examples of how autre vie may be applied:

  • A property owner grants a life estate to their friend, allowing the friend to live in the house until they pass away. After the friend's death, the property returns to the owner's estate.
  • A parent creates a trust for their child that lasts for the life of the child's spouse. The spouse can use the property during their lifetime, but it will revert to the parent's heirs after the spouse's death. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Variation
California Allows for specific conditions in life estates, including rights of use and maintenance.
New York Has unique rules regarding the transfer of life estates and their implications on taxes.
Texas Recognizes life estates but has specific requirements for their creation and termination.

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

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Life Estate An estate that lasts for the lifetime of a specified individual. Autre vie is specifically for the life of someone other than the holder.
Devise A gift of real estate made in a will. Devise does not specify the lifetime condition as in autre vie.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in a situation that relates to autre vie, consider the following steps:

  • Review any existing estate documents to understand your rights and responsibilities.
  • Consult with a legal professional to clarify any complex issues.
  • Explore ready-to-use legal form templates from US Legal Forms to assist with any necessary documentation.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical Duration Until the death of the specified individual
Jurisdiction Varies by state
Possible Fees Legal fees for drafting and managing estate documents

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A life estate is for the lifetime of the holder, while autre vie is for the lifetime of another person.