Which of the following best describes a life estate?

A life estate is defined as an interest in property that lasts for the lifetime of a specific individual, known as the life tenant. This means that the rights to use and occupy the property exist only as long as this particular person is alive. Upon their death, the ownership of the property does not continue with the life tenant's heirs; instead, it passes to another designated party or reverts back to the original grantor, depending on the terms outlined in the deed creating the life estate.

This concept is distinct from other types of estates. For instance, an indefinite estate would imply ownership that does not have a set time limit, while a temporary estate that automatically expires would suggest the property rights cease after a certain period, which does not align with the characteristics of a life estate. Similarly, an estate for a specific term indicates ownership for a predetermined duration, which again differs from the life tenant's rights.

Understanding the nuances of a life estate is critical in real estate law and practice, as it affects not only property rights but also estate planning and inheritance issues.