Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

How does one prove they are next of kin?????

When a person dies and has only one son who is 23 are they next of kin or are the deceased parents the next of kin and what constitutes proof of this?


Asked on 1/31/07, 2:00 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Chris Johnson Christopher B. Johnson, Attorney at Law

Re: How does one prove they are next of kin?

Is there a dispute? If there's some doubt in a probate, the executor/administrator will file a petition to determine heirship with the known facts and the court will decide.

If it's proving entitlement to something like a life insurance policy or retirement plan, the company administering the plan/life insurance will give you the list of their requirements.

As for next of kin, if the decedent is not married, his/her children are the closest relatives, and if there are no children, then the parents of the decedent are.

Read more
Answered on 1/31/07, 2:22 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Probate, Trusts, Wills & Estates questions and answers in California