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Simple English definitions for legal terms
degree of relationship
Read a random definition: bylaws
A quick definition of degree of relationship:
The degree of relationship is a way to measure how closely related two people are in terms of blood or marriage. It helps determine who is the closest heir to an estate and also establishes the rules for who can and cannot get married. To calculate the degree of relationship, you count the number of steps between the two people up to the nearest common ancestor and then back down to the other person. The total number of steps is the degree of relationship. For example, a cousin is in the fourth degree of relationship.
A more thorough explanation:
Degree of relationship refers to the level of blood or marital connection between two individuals. It is used to determine inheritance rights and marriage restrictions.
- If a person's cousin is the closest living relative, they are considered to be in the fourth degree of relationship.
- Marriage between siblings is considered to be in a prohibited degree of relationship.
The first example illustrates how degree of relationship is used to determine inheritance rights. The second example shows how it is used to establish marriage restrictions.
degree of proof | de haerede deliberando illi qui habet custodiam terrae