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What Happens if a Parent Dies in Arkansas Without a Will?

My dad is brain dead in the hospital. I know that in Arkansas siblings split the assets evenly, but my brother hasn’t contacted my dad in 12 years. Does my brother still get his portion of the inheritance?

I am sorry about your loss. You have been correctly informed about assets in Arkansas when someone dies without a will. Although you do not say so, I assume your father did not leave a valid will. When that happens, all of his assets must go through probate and the division is determined by Arkansas statute. If your father is not married, his children will split the assets evenly, after his debts are paid. If he leaves a widow, his wife is entitled to a share of the estate before it is divided between the children. There is no basis under the law to dispute distribution. Please see a probate attorney in your area.

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