What is the consequence of an invalid will in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, when a will is determined to be invalid, it is disregarded completely, and the distribution of the estate is conducted according to the laws of intestacy, which are the default rules applied when someone dies without a valid will. This means that the estate will be divided amongst the heirs as dictated by state law, prioritizing relatives such as spouses, children, and other family members, rather than following any intentions expressed by the deceased in the invalid will.

This highlighting of state law ensures that the rightful heirs inherit according to established legal standards rather than any potentially faulty or informal expressions of the deceased's wishes. The other options do not align with legal procedures; for instance, executors do not incur penalties for administering invalid wills, beneficiaries cannot unilaterally amend a will, and the deceased’s wishes cannot be enforced if the will is not valid.