What does being next of kin mean?

closest relative
A ‘next of kin’ is a traditional term which typically refers to a person’s closest relative. In fact, the only situation where someone’s next of kin automatically has the legal right to make decisions on their behalf is when the person is under 18 and their next of kin is their parent or legal guardian.

Where did the phrase next of kin come from?

Both words date back to Old English, with kin reaching back to the 700s. Originally referring to one’s family or race, kin narrowed to refer just to one’s blood relations. Your “next of kin” is your closest family member: spouse, child, parent, or sibling.

How do you become next of kin?

In the case of a married couple or a civil partnership it usually means their husband or wife. Next of kin is a title that can be given, by you, to anyone from your partner to blood relatives and even friends. It is also possible to name more than one person as your next of kin.

Who is a legal next of kin?

Next of kin is the term used to describe your closest living relative, such as your spouse or civil partner.

Who qualifies as next of kin?

Next of Kin. The blood relatives entitled by law to inherit the property of a person who dies without leaving a valid will, although the term is sometimes interpreted to include a relationship existing by reason of marriage.

What rights does a next of kin have legally?

What are the Next of Kin’s legal rights? As far as the law is concerned next of kin means nothing with the exception of children aged under 18. The next of kin of a child under 18 may be legally entitled to make decisions for or on behalf of the child. The term usually means your nearest blood relative.

How do you determine the next of kin?

In the United States, a person’s “next of kin” is determined by state statute. Typically, you will want to know this information if someone dies without making a will. The person’s next of kin then inherit any estate property.

What are the responsibilities of next of kin?

Next of kin can also be called upon to make medical decisions for a person who has become incapacitated or to make funeral/burial arrangements. The next-of-kin designation also enables the person to carry out other responsibilities.