In a joint tenancy, what occurs automatically when one co-owner passes away?

In a joint tenancy, when one co-owner passes away, the remaining co-owners automatically absorb the deceased owner's share, leading to an increase in their respective ownership interests. This process, known as the right of survivorship, ensures that the property does not pass to the heirs of the deceased but remains with the surviving co-owners. As a result, the interests are not inherited by heirs, nor are they divided among the survivors in a manner that alters their existing shares. Instead, the shares of the remaining owners increase to reflect the total ownership of the property. This characteristic of joint tenancy highlights its distinctive nature compared to other forms of ownership, emphasizing the importance of survivorship rights in property law.