Legal Definitions - Parentelic System

The parentelic system is a way that some states use to decide who will inherit the property of a person who has died without a will. First, the assets go to the spouse, children, and parents of the deceased person. If there are no surviving spouse, children, or parents, then the system looks for other relatives.

For example, if someone dies without a will and has no spouse, children, or parents, the parentelic system will look for siblings, nieces, and nephews. If there are no siblings, nieces, or nephews, then the system will look for cousins, aunts, and uncles.

The parentelic system is used to make sure that the property of a person who has died without a will goes to their closest living relatives. This system is used in some states to make sure that the property is distributed fairly.