Different Forms of Inheritance

Inheritance of property and belongings has been a subject of study for both anthropology and sociology for hundreds of years. Many cultures feature a patrilineal legacy, where male children inherit the possessions. In contrast, other societies have matrilineal inheritance, where women are the heirs. Other types of inheritance include primogeniture, where the eldest child gains all of the property. Most modern societies follow a pattern of partible inheritance, under which each child is entitled property, usually in an equal manner.

Throughout history, some cultures have mixed various forms of inheritance to create unique ways of distributing the possessions of deceased family members. In Sweden, from the 13th through the 16th century, male heirs inherited twice as much as female heirs. This rule was regarded as an improvement in the law, as before it was put into place, daughters did not receive anything. Another example of a mixed system was from the Galician people. All children received some possessions; however, the one son who inherited the house also received one third of all property.

In common law jurisdictions, an heir is a person who is entitled to receive part or all of the deceased party’s estate. The distribution of belongings can be allotted in conjunction with the decedent’s desires, usually through a legal document outlining the wishes of the owner of the estate. This document is called a will. If the owner passes away without a will, distribution of inheritance usually follows societal customs and laws.

If you would like to learn more about probate issues such as wills or estate planning, contact one of the experienced Austin inheritance lawyers at Slater & Kennon right away by calling 512-472-2431.