Legal Definitions - son

In legal contexts, a son refers to a male individual who is the direct male offspring of a parent, whether through biological birth or legal adoption. This term is crucial in areas such as family law, estate planning, and dependency claims, establishing a specific familial relationship.

• Example 1: Estate Planning

  A will states, "I bequeath my entire estate to my son, David Chen."

  Explanation: This example illustrates the term's use in inheritance law. David Chen is legally recognized as the male child of the testator (the person making the will), making him a direct beneficiary of the estate based on this familial relationship.

• Example 2: Family Law and Child Support

  During divorce proceedings, a court order mandates that one parent pay child support for their son, Ethan Miller, until he reaches the age of majority.

  Explanation: Here, "son" identifies Ethan Miller as the male child of the divorcing parents. The legal obligation for child support is directly tied to this parental relationship, ensuring the financial well-being of the minor male child.

• Example 3: Adoption Proceedings

  After a successful legal process, a couple officially adopts a child, and the court declares the child to be their legal son, Marcus Johnson.

  Explanation: This demonstrates that the term "son" encompasses adopted children. Through the legal adoption process, Marcus Johnson gains all the rights and responsibilities of a biological male child to his adoptive parents, establishing a full legal parent-child relationship.