If you live in England or Wales, die intestate and you are married, your assets are distributed as follows:
Estate value is less than £200,000
The surviving spouse or civil partner will inherit 100% of the estate
Estate value is greater than £200,000
If there are children:
The first £125,000 to the surviving spouse or civil partner
50% of balance in a life interest for the surviving spouse or civil partner
50% of balance is held in trust for the children, in equal shares, until they reach the age of 18
No children but there are brothers and sisters of the deceased:
The first £200,000 to the surviving spouse or civil partner
50% of balance in a life interest for the surviving spouse or civil partner
50% of balance for any brothers and sisters, in equal shares
No children and no brothers and sisters of the deceased:
The surviving spouse or civil partner will inherit 100% of the estate