The word “survivor” has a legal connotation, referring to an individual’s rights or interests in a certain document or estate after the death of another person. Such rights may include proceeds from a will or trust, assets, and other inheritances. In order for a survivor to receive these rights or interests, the deceased person must designate them as the beneficiary or heir in that document.
Common Examples of Survivors
Survivor rights or interests are common in cases of marriage, divorce, trust, wills, and insurance contracts. For example, a wife who outlives her husband would likely receive his estate as the documented survivor in his will or trust.
Survivors may also receive the right to pursue damages in a wrongful death lawsuit. Moreover, a trust or other document may include properties and assets to be given to a specified survivor upon the death of the individual who created the document.
What to Consider When Establishing a Survivor
There are several factors that should be taken into account when establishing a survivor in a legal document or estate. These include but are not limited to the relationship between the creator of the document and the designated survivor, the financial stability of the survivor, the level of trust between the creator and the survivor, and any particular instructions the creator may have for the survivor.
When it comes to a legal document or estate, designating a survivor is a serious decision that should not be taken lightly. It is important to understand the legal implications of designating a survivor and to ensure that the survivor is the right choice for the desired outcome.