Legal Definitions - canon of descent

Definition: Canon of descent refers to a fundamental rule or principle that governs how property or titles are passed down from one generation to the next.

For example, in some cultures, the canon of descent may dictate that property is passed down to the eldest son, while in others it may be passed down to the eldest daughter. In some cases, the canon of descent may also take into account factors such as birth order, gender, and marital status.

These examples illustrate how the canon of descent can vary widely depending on cultural and historical factors. Understanding the canon of descent is important for anyone who is involved in estate planning or inheritance issues, as it can have a significant impact on how property is distributed after someone passes away.