Probate is when government settles an estate amongst heirs. Escheat/eschete is when government takes an estate in the absence of heirs.
Thank you for the clarification.
Having had to deal with my mom’s passing a couple of years ago, and my brother, who was named as her executor, the State still decides.
IF you actually write a will—you do NOT have to have ‘heirs”.
Many single people with NO kids can leave their assets to WHOMEVER they please.
BUT they have to put it in writing. Should also name an executor.