In legal terminology, when a person dies they are considered a decedent. It is their last will and testament that will be probate and carried out to the fullest extent of the law. As difficult as it may be, while the decedent is alive that person needs to plan for the time when they will pass away and take into consideration their family and the family's needs. The decedent is the only person who can fully know how they want their estate handled. This is why it is important to consult with an attorney and make sure all documents are in place to carry out final wishes and distribute property the way they intended it to be. Doing this makes the family of the decedent less stressed and able to move forward with what needs to be done as the decedent desired.