Abatement

The reduction of gifts left in the will because the estate is not big enough to meet all the legacies in full.

Absolute gift

See outright gift.

Ademption

The failure of a gift in the will because the property in question is not in the estate any more.

Administration of estate

The process of collecting in the deceased’s assets, paying any debts and other liabilities, and distributing the estate.

Administrator

A person who deals with the estate of a person who died intestate – i.e. they did not leave a valid will.

Advance decision

A decision made in advance by an individual to refuse particular medical treatment if they are not able to make the decision later. This is also known as a living will.

Advance statement

A statement, not legally enforceable, by which a person indicates in advance the kind of care they would like to receive if they later lose capacity to decide or communicate. This should not be confused with an advance decision.

Appropriation

The acceptance of one asset in whole or partial satisfaction of another legacy. For example, a person accepts a car in lieu of a cash sum that they have been left in a will.

Assent

The formal transfer of ownership of property from the personal representatives of the estate to the beneficiary.

Assets

The property, money, investments, and possessions owned or partly owned by the deceased at the date of death. It also covers amounts which would become payable on death (such as life insurance cover). Assets go to make up the estate.

Attestation clause

A clause stating that the will has been signed by the testator in the presence of two witnesses.