next of kin laws

[DMA1967]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? PA

My ex husband has just passed away. He leaves behind two children 21 and 15 years of age. The oldest had to sign the creamation papers because he his next of kin. The rest of his family hasn't offered them anything. Are my children not the next of kin and entitled to all of there fathers things before his mother and brother and sisters????

 

[anteater]

It depends.

If he did not have a will, then the children would stand to inherit. If he did have a will, the will's provisions would determine the distribution of his assets. Either way, any of his legitimate creditors would have to be paid before anybody inherits.