Bequests to close relatives who die before the testator will go to the relative's heirs unless the will includes other directions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is known as the doctrine of lapse, where a bequest to a close relative who dies before the testator will go to the relative's heirs. However, if the will includes alternate directions or provisions for distribution, those will be followed instead.

Bequests to Close Relatives Who Die Before the Testator Will