Legal Definitions - equal degree

Definition: Equal degree refers to a relationship between two or more relatives who are the same number of steps away from a common ancestor.

For example, if two cousins are both three steps away from their common grandparent, they are in an equal degree of relationship.

This term is often used in the context of determining inheritance rights or establishing the legality of marriage. In some jurisdictions, marriage between individuals who are within a certain degree of relationship (such as first cousins) is prohibited by law.

Equal degree can also refer to the level of intensity or seriousness of something. For instance, a high degree of skill may be required for a particular job or task.

Finally, degree can also refer to a title conferred upon someone who has completed a course of study at a school, college, or university. For example, someone who has completed a law degree may be referred to as a "lawyer."