CODICIL - A writing signed at the end by a testator which amends or augments an existing Will.

DECEDENT - A term used to identify a deceased person.

ESTATE - The property owned by a person at death over which an executor or administrator is authorized to exercise control either by virtue of a Will or, in the absence of a Will, by the Probate Code.

INTESTATE - Each state has their own set of laws dealing with the procedure to be followed when an individual dies without a Will.

JOINT TENANCY - Property held in the names of two or more persons. The property passes to the surviving joint tenant on death of the other joint tenant or joint tenants.

PROBATE - This means "to prove" a Will. A Will is proved when it is submitted to the Register of Wills who determines the Will to be valid and issues a decree appointing a personal representative (executor) to administer the estate of the decedent.

TENANTS BY THE ENTIRETIES - A form of joint ownership exclusively for husbands and wives. On the death of a spouse, the surviving spouse becomes the sole owner of the property.

TESTATOR/TESTATRIX - A deceased person who leaves a Will disposing of property