Quick Definition

Next of kin refers to a person's closest living blood relative or relatives who may have legal rights or responsibilities if the person becomes incapacitated or deceased.

Examples

• 1In the event of a medical emergency where a person is unable to make decisions, the hospital may contact their next of kin to make medical decisions on their behalf.
• 2When a person dies without a will, their estate is typically inherited by their next of kin according to the laws of intestacy.
• 3A person may list their next of kin on various legal documents, such as life insurance policies, to ensure they are contacted or benefit in case of the policyholder's death.

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