In joint tenancy, what happens when one joint tenant dies?

In joint tenancy, one of the key characteristics is the right of survivorship. This means that when one joint tenant dies, their interest in the property automatically transfers to the surviving joint tenants. The remaining tenants inherit the deceased tenant's interest and continue to hold the property jointly. This ensures that the property remains with the surviving owners, rather than passing on to the deceased's heirs or potentially going through probate.

This principle of the right of survivorship distinguishes joint tenancy from other forms of property ownership, such as tenancy in common, where a deceased tenant’s interest would pass to their heirs. In the case of joint tenancy, the structure is designed to avoid complications that often arise when property is left to heirs. Thus, the property continues to be owned and managed by the remaining tenants without interruption.