According to intestate succession laws, what happens to community property owned by Spouse A and Spouse B if Spouse A dies?

In the context of California law, community property refers to the assets and property acquired during the marriage, which are owned equally by both spouses. Therefore, when Spouse A dies, the community property that includes contributions from both Spouse A and Spouse B will be inherited entirely by Spouse B. This principle is in place to protect the surviving spouse’s rights and ensure that they retain their half of the community property, reflecting the intent of California's community property laws.

Because community property is defined to belong equally to both spouses, Spouse B will inherit the entirety of the community property. This arrangement maintains financial stability for the surviving spouse and reflects the shared nature of the property during the marriage. Unlike other forms of ownership, which might pass differently upon death, community property distinctly allows for the surviving spouse to retain full rights to the accumulated assets shared during the marriage.