NEXT OF KIN

next of kin. 1. The person or persons most closely related to a decedent by blood or affinity. Cf. RELATIVE. [Cases: Descent and Distribution 20–43; Wills 508. C.J.S. Descent and Distribution §§ 23–49; Wills§ 921.] 2. An intestate’s heirs — that is, the person or persons entitled to inherit personal property from a decedent who has not left a will. See HEIR.

[Blacks Law 8th]