If you marry and your spouse dies without a valid will, intestacy rules will apply. The rules in England recognise spouses, civil partners and children, but not those who are cohabiting. If your partner dies without making a will, the rules mean that their entire estate (apart from property you own jointly) will pass to your joint child, not you. You may be able to apply for reasonable financial provision from your partner’s estate but outcomes are uncertain and can take many months to resolve.