What minimum share of his estate will Angelika be legally entitled to if Joe dies without a Will?

• A. None
• B. 1/3rd
• C. Half
• D. 2/3rds

Answer: (A)

When an individual dies without a Will, they are said to have died "intestate," and the distribution of their estate is governed by the rules of intestacy relevant to their jurisdiction. In many jurisdictions, the distribution laws specify what surviving relatives are legally entitled to receive.

In the case of Angelika, if she is not recognized as a legally entitled heir (for example, if she is not a spouse or blood relative), she may not receive any portion of Joe’s estate upon his dying intestate. This scenario particularly applies if Joe has other closer relatives, such as children, parents, or siblings, who would take precedence over a non-relative, depending on the laws governing intestate succession in their jurisdiction. Therefore, it is entirely possible for Angelika to receive no share at all if no legal framework grants her such rights.

Understanding the intestacy laws is crucial, as they dictate the hierarchy of beneficiaries and the specific portions allocated to them based on their relationship to the deceased.