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Simple English definitions for legal terms
legal heir
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A quick definition of legal heir:
A legal heir is someone who is entitled to receive property from someone who has died without leaving a will. They can also inherit property through a will. In some cases, a legal heir may be a close relative of the deceased, like a child or spouse. However, it can also refer to someone who inherits a lot of money or property. In civil law, an heir can also be someone who succeeds to the rights and estate of a deceased person.A more thorough explanation:
A legal heir is a person who is entitled to receive the property of a deceased person according to the laws of intestacy. This means that if the deceased person did not leave a will, their property will be distributed to their legal heirs. The term legal heir is also known as heir at law, lawful heir, heir general, legitimate heir.
For example, if a person dies without a will, their property will be distributed to their legal heirs, such as their spouse, children, parents, or siblings, depending on the laws of the state where they lived.
It is important to note that the term heir is reserved for those who receive real property by the laws of intestacy, which only apply in the absence of a valid will. If a person receives property by will, they are not considered an heir, but rather a beneficiary.