Legal Definitions - sine prole

Sine prole is a Latin phrase that translates to "without issue." In legal and historical contexts, particularly in genealogy, wills, and trusts, "issue" refers to direct descendants, such as children, grandchildren, and so on. Therefore, someone described as sine prole died without having any children or other direct descendants.

This term is often abbreviated as s.p. in genealogical records or estate documents to concisely indicate the absence of direct heirs.

Here are some examples illustrating the use of sine prole:

• Example 1: Estate Planning in a Will

  A will might contain a clause stating, "Should my son, David, predecease me sine prole, his designated inheritance shall instead be distributed equally among my surviving siblings."

  Explanation: This clause specifies what should happen to David's share of the inheritance if he dies before his parent and also has no children of his own. If David were to pass away without any direct descendants, his portion of the estate would then go to the testator's (the person making the will) siblings, rather than being passed down through David's line.

• Example 2: Historical Genealogical Record

  In a historical family tree or lineage chart, an entry for a particular individual might read: "Eleanor Vance (1820-1875) – m. Arthur Sterling; s.p."

  Explanation: This entry indicates that Eleanor Vance lived from 1820 to 1875, married Arthur Sterling, but died without any children or direct descendants. This information is critical for genealogists to accurately trace family lines and understand the succession of property or titles.

• Example 3: Trust Agreement Provision

  A trust agreement could include a provision stipulating, "Upon the death of my niece, Clara, if she dies sine prole, the remaining assets held in Trust B for her benefit shall be distributed to the American Heart Association."

  Explanation: This provision outlines a contingency for the distribution of trust assets. If Clara passes away without having any children or direct descendants, the funds that were set aside for her in Trust B will then be directed to the specified charity, ensuring the assets are distributed according to the grantor's wishes even in the absence of direct heirs.