“Next of kin” generally refers to your closest living relative. While it’s often used in medical contexts, it also plays a crucial role when someone dies, especially if they haven’t left a will. Understanding what “next of kin” means can help you navigate important decisions and processes, both in life and after death.
Next of Kin in Medical Settings
When you’re admitted to a hospital in the UK, you’ll usually be asked to provide your next of kin. This is typically a spouse, partner, parent, or adult child, but most hospitals are flexible and allow you to choose someone you trust.
Why is this important?
- Emergency Contact: If your condition changes or there’s an emergency, the hospital needs to be able to contact someone quickly.
- Support and Decision-Making: Your next of kin can provide support and make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so yourself.
- Collecting You After Treatment: They’ll also be responsible for making arrangements for you to leave the hospital when you’re ready.
Next of Kin and Inheritance
Next of kin takes on a different meaning when someone dies without a will (this is called dying “intestate”). In these cases, the law dictates who inherits the deceased person’s assets (their “estate”). This follows a specific order of priority:
- Spouse or civil partner
- Children
- Parents
- Brothers and sisters
- … and so on.
For example: If Sarah dies without a will and is survived by her husband and two children, her husband would be the primary inheritor.
Applying for Probate
When someone dies, their estate often needs to go through a legal process called “probate.” This grants someone the legal right to manage the deceased person’s assets. If there’s no will, the next of kin is usually responsible for applying for probate.
Next of Kin and Funeral Arrangements
If someone dies without a will, the next of kin often takes charge of arranging and paying for the funeral. However, if there is a will, the executor named in the will usually handles these responsibilities.
Executor vs. Next of Kin: An executor is specifically appointed in a will to carry out the deceased’s wishes. They may be a family member, friend, or a professional like a solicitor. While the next of kin might be involved in funeral arrangements, the executor has the final say.
Variety Funerals Can Help
Arranging a funeral can be a difficult task during an already emotional time. Variety Funerals offers compassionate support and guidance to families, helping them navigate the process with ease.
We understand that dealing with legal and financial matters after a loss can be overwhelming. That’s why, as a Variety Funerals client, Variety VIP is included, giving you access to exclusive discounts from trusted partners including a UK leading estate administration specialist. Their experts can help you navigate probate and estate administration, ensuring everything is handled smoothly.
Need more information?
If you have any questions or need assistance with funeral arrangements, please don’t hesitate to contact Variety Funerals. You can fill out our online contact form or call us free on 0800 774 7804, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We’re here to help.
