Legal heir

If a childless couple has no adopted children, their legal heirs are determined by the personal laws applicable to them. Under Hindu law, the property of a deceased person is inherited first by Class I heirs (spouse, parents, and others). If none exist, it goes to Class II heirs, which include siblings, nieces, and nephews. For Muslims, inheritance follows Sharia law, dividing the property among specified relatives. Under Christian or Parsi law, the spouse and blood relatives inherit as per the Indian Succession Act. The exact distribution depends on the deceased's religion and surviving relatives. Writing a will ensures clarity and avoids disputes.