Wills, Trusts & Estates Exam
Question 1. Under intestacy statutes, who typically inherits a decedent’s estate if there is a surviving
spouse but no descendants or parents?
A) The surviving spouse takes all
B) The decedent’s siblings share equally
C) The estate escheats to the state
D) The surviving spouse and siblings each take half
Answer: A
Explanation: Most intestacy statutes provide that if a decedent leaves a surviving spouse and no
descendants or parents, the spouse inherits the entire estate.
Question 2. Which distribution method divides an estate so that each branch of the family receives an
equal share at the first generational level?
A) Per stirpes
B) Per capita at each generation
C) Joint tenancy
D) Escheat
Answer: A
Explanation: Per stirpes distribution divides the estate by branches, with each branch (descendants of a
child) receiving an equal share.
Question 3. What is the effect of the Uniform Simultaneous Death Act if two heirs die at the same time
and it cannot be determined who died first?
A) The younger is presumed to survive
B) Each is deemed to have predeceased the other
C) The older inherits everything
D) The estate escheats
Answer: B
Explanation: The Act treats each as having predeceased the other for inheritance purposes, preventing
double inheritance.
Question 4. Which of the following is a requirement for a valid attested will?
