Canon of Descent Law and Legal Definition
Canon of descent refers to a common law governing intestate succession. Under canon of descent, the landholdings are concentrated in the hands of a few people. It also prohibits the diffusion of landed property. Canon of descent was evolved from the martial genius of the feudal system. In the U.S., the concept of canon of descent is rejected. It is also known as canon of inheritance.
The following is an example of a case law defining canon of descent:
Canon of descent refers to a rule for the ascertainment of next of kin.[Cloud v. Bruce, 61 Ind. 171, 179 (Ind. 1878)].
