Legal Definitions - half orphan

A half orphan refers to a minor child who has lost one parent due to death, but whose other parent is still living. This term distinguishes them from a full orphan, who has lost both parents.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of a half orphan:

• Example 1: After a tragic car accident, seven-year-old Maya's mother passed away. Her father, however, survived and continues to raise Maya. In this situation, Maya is considered a half orphan because she has lost one parent (her mother) but still has her other parent (her father) alive and actively involved in her care.

• Example 2: When ten-year-old Liam's father succumbed to a long-term illness, Liam and his younger sister continued to live with their mother. Their mother became the sole surviving parent responsible for their upbringing. Liam and his sister are both considered half orphans because they have experienced the death of one parent while their other parent remains alive.

• Example 3: A government social security program provides survivor benefits to children under 18 whose deceased parent contributed to the system. If 15-year-old Chloe's father passed away, but her mother is still alive, Chloe would be eligible for these benefits as a half orphan. The program recognizes her status as having lost one parent, even though her other parent is still living and caring for her, acknowledging the financial impact of the loss.