Adeem Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Adeem.

Adeem (verb) : A legal term used in the context of wills. It refers to the cancellation of a gift bequeathed in a will due to the non-existence of the gifted item at the time of the testator's death. Reasons for non-existence can include destruction, sale, or other factors. If the will leaves a specific item to a certain person, but that item is not available when the testator dies (for example, a car that no longer exists), the gift is considered "adeemed." The court may then attempt to replace the missing item or its value from the remaining estate.