Legal Definitions - in linea recta

in linea recta

In the direct line of succession.

• Prince Charles is next in line to the British throne in linea recta after Queen Elizabeth II.
• According to the company's policy, only direct descendants can inherit the business in linea recta.

The term "in linea recta" refers to a direct line of succession, meaning that someone is next in line to inherit a position or property without any other relatives in between. The examples illustrate this by showing how Prince Charles is next in line to the British throne in linea recta because he is the direct descendant of Queen Elizabeth II, and how only direct descendants can inherit a business in linea recta according to company policy.