NEXT OF KIN

(A) This term is used to signify the relations of a party who has died intestate. 2. In general no one comes within this term who is not included in the provisions of the statutes of distribution. A wife cannot, in general, claim as next of kin of her husband, nor a husband as next of kin of his wife. But when there are circumstances in a will which induce a belief of an intention to include them under this term, they will be so considered, though in the ordinary sense of the word, they are not. (B) The closest relatives, as defined by state law, of a deceased person. Most states recognize the spouse and the nearest blood relatives as next of kin.