In the next of kin hierarchy, who follows the legal spouse as the second in line?

In the hierarchy of next of kin, after the legal spouse, the second in line is typically the children of the decedent. This places an adult child over the other relatives listed. Children are considered direct descendants and have an immediate legal connection to the decedent, which elevates their claim in matters concerning inheritance, decision-making in health care, and other legal considerations following a decedent's passing.

Parents would follow after children in the hierarchy, but since children come before parents in the line of succession, they are not considered the second in line. Similarly, a guardian of a minor child does not enter the hierarchy of inheritance rights; rather, they serve a custodial role. Maternal grandparents are further removed in the hierarchy, as they would only come into consideration if no children or spouses are present. Thus, adult children rightfully occupy the position immediately following the legal spouse in the next of kin order.