Next of kin什麼意思

"Next of kin" is a term used to describe the closest living relative of a deceased person. The exact definition can vary depending on the jurisdiction, but it typically refers to the person who has the most immediate familial relationship to the deceased, such as a spouse, child, parent, or sibling.

In legal and administrative contexts, the next of kin is often the person who is responsible for making funeral arrangements and may also be the default beneficiary in the absence of a will or other estate planning documents. In some cases, there may be multiple next of kin, such as when there is more than one child or when there is a surviving spouse and children from a previous relationship.

If the deceased has not left a will, the next of kin may also have inheritance rights and may be entitled to a portion of the estate according to the laws of intestate succession in the relevant jurisdiction.

It's important to note that the term "next of kin" does not necessarily imply a legal status or relationship, and its use can vary in different countries and cultures. In some cases, it may simply refer to the closest relative or friend of the deceased, rather than having a specific legal meaning.