The specific laws regarding the distribution of assets upon death vary from state to state, so it's important to consult with an attorney or estate planning professional to get specific advice for your situation. However, in general, here's what might happen to the car lease:
1. If your father-in-law had a will, the will may specify who should inherit the car lease. If the will specifically mentions the car lease and indicates who should receive it, that person will likely be entitled to take over the lease.
2. If there is no will, or if the will does not specifically address the car lease, the state's laws of intestacy will determine who inherits the estate, including the car lease. The laws of intestacy vary from state to state, but typically they specify a default order of inheritance, such as the surviving spouse, children, parents, siblings, and so on.
3. In some cases, the car lease agreement itself may include provisions regarding what happens to the lease if the lessee dies. For example, some lease agreements may allow a co-signer or the lessee's estate to assume the lease, while others may require the lease to be terminated.
It's important to note that the car lease is a legal contract between your father-in-law and the leasing company. If you or someone else wants to assume the lease, you must comply with the terms and conditions of the lease agreement and obtain the consent of the leasing company.
If you have any questions or concerns about what will happen to your father-in-law's car lease, it's best to consult with an attorney or estate planning professional who can provide you with specific advice based on the laws of your state and the terms of the lease agreement.